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Enumclaw council holds first reading of ordinance to regulate high‑powered electric motorcycles
Summary
At its June 22 meeting the Enumclaw City Council held a first reading of Ordinance No. 2839 to define and restrict electric motorcycles after staff cited resident complaints about speed, sidewalk operation and near misses; the council may revise language before a second reading.
Enumclaw — The City Council on June 22 held the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839, a proposed municipal code defining and regulating electric motorcycles, including high‑powered off‑road style e‑bikes often operated on streets and sidewalks.
Police Chief (speaker 11) told the council staff has received complaints about these vehicles operating at unsafe speeds in residential neighborhoods, riding on sidewalks and multiuse trails, producing noise, and causing near misses with pedestrians. The staff report said the proposed ordinance would distinguish electric motorcycles from e‑bikes and mopeds by power output and speed capability, restrict use areas, prohibit operation on sidewalks and in parks unless specifically authorized, and require helmets, lighting and other minimum safety equipment for roadway operation.
"These vehicles are often marketed as recreational or off‑road use devices, but are frequently operated on public streets, sidewalks, and multi use trails within city limits," the chief said, recommending the council adopt a new municipal code chapter to provide enforcement clarity and enhance public safety.
The staff presentation noted recent state action and guidance: a state bill creating a Department of Licensing work group (referred to in the staff report as Substitute Senate Bill 6110) requires state rulemaking activity with a due date in October 2027. The ordinance is framed to complement, not conflict with, state law and includes enforcement options ranging from warnings to citations, vehicle impoundment for repeat or egregious cases, and classification of violations for consistent response.
Councilmembers were reminded this was the ordinance’s first reading and can be amended at second reading; no final council vote occurred at the June 22 meeting. The matter will return for further council consideration and possible revisions before any adoption.
