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Enumclaw council holds first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
At its June 22 meeting the Enumclaw City Council held a first reading of Ordinance No. 2839 to define and regulate electric motorcycles, after a police staff report citing sidewalk use, high speeds, juvenile riders and gaps in state guidance; no vote was taken on the ordinance at first reading.
The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 heard the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839, a proposed municipal-code chapter that would define and restrict the use of electric motorcycles within city limits.
Police Chief (speaker) told the council that electric motorcycles — including high-powered electric dirt bikes — have become increasingly common and are frequently operated on streets, sidewalks and multi-use trails, creating enforcement uncertainty. "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 during the staff presentation.
The staff report said Enumclaw Municipal Code does not currently distinguish electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds, which the ordinance would address by using power output, speed capability and design to create a distinct category. The proposal would prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multi-use trails unless specifically authorized, require helmets consistent with state law, require lighting and safety equipment for roadway use, and require a valid driver's license for roadway operation. The report also described enforcement options including warnings, citations and vehicle impoundment for repeat or egregious cases.
The Police Chief referenced state-level activity, noting that recent legislation established a Department of Licensing work group with a deadline of October 2027 to develop state definitions and regulatory guidance. The staff report said the proposed city ordinance is intended to complement state law by resolving local enforcement ambiguities in the interim.
This was a first reading; the mayor noted councilmembers could submit edits or raise additional questions at second reading before any vote.
