New Lenox board adopts e-bike and e-scooter rules with $50 first-offense citation

The Village of New Lenox Board of Trustees voted to adopt an ordinance that sets local rules for e-bikes, e-scooters and similar electric micromobility devices, including an education-first enforcement approach, a $50 citation for first offenses and authority to seize or tow devices when they pose a public-safety risk.

The ordinance, introduced by the police chief as an amendment to Chapter 90 (traffic and vehicles), is intended to align local rules with forthcoming state requirements and to provide clearer local guidance on where and by whom these devices may be used. "With the growing popularity of these devices, we've had to come up with some clear guidance on how they can be used, when they can be used, where they can be used," the chief said, noting the ordinance will mirror state age limits that take effect July 1 and additional state preemption expected in January.

The board debated enforcement priorities and potential risks. Trustees emphasized education as the first step and cautioned against aggressive enforcement that could endanger children; the chief described enforcement steps as education first, then fines, and said the ordinance allows for seizure when continued use creates a safety risk. "We're going to try to educate and get with residents who own them… the first offense… will be a $50 citation," the chief said. Trustees also pointed to other local vehicle-safety concerns, including dirt bikes and underage golf-cart operation.

Resident speaker Thomas Noak, who identified himself as living on Columbia Drive, told the board he supported age restrictions but urged investment in off-street paths and concrete, short-term benchmarks for active-transportation projects so people have safe places to ride. "We need more paths for them to actually be on," he said, urging the board to set goals such as miles of trail per year.

The board voted to set aside the rules and waive the second reading, then adopted the ordinance by roll call vote; the motion to waive the rules carried on a voice vote before the roll-call adoption. Trustees Madson, Galuza, Scaliz, Christopherson, Wilson and Mayor Balderman voted in favor; Trustee Riser was absent. The chief and staff said the ordinance will remain in force until the state’s forthcoming rules fully preempt local authority in January.

The ordinance directs staff to proceed with an education campaign before heavy enforcement and provides explicit penalties and seizure authority for use posing public-safety risks. The board did not schedule any additional hearings on this ordinance; staff indicated they will pursue public outreach and education to notify residents of the new rules.

What’s next: Staff is expected to roll out an education campaign in the coming weeks to inform residents of age limits and where devices are permitted, and the ordinance will be revisited if state law alters the village’s authority.