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Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles after resident complaints
Summary
Council received a staff report and held the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839, which would define and restrict electric motorcycles, require safety equipment and operator licensing, and provide enforcement tools in response to resident complaints about high‑powered electric dirt bikes operating on streets and sidewalks.
The Enumclaw City Council held a first reading on June 22 of Ordinance No. 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter that would define and regulate electric motorcycles, including high‑powered electric dirt bikes, after staff said the devices are increasingly operated on public streets, sidewalks and multiuse trails.
Police Chief (speaking for staff) told the council the 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,’’ creating ‘‘ambiguity for riders, law enforcement, and the community regarding where and how these vehicles may be lawfully operated.’’ The staff report said complaints included unsafe speeds in residential neighborhoods, operation on sidewalks and pedestrian pathways, noise concerns, and near‑miss incidents involving pedestrians and vehicles.
Under the proposed ordinance, electric motorcycles would be distinguished from e‑bikes and mopeds ‘‘based on power output, speed capability and design,’’ and the code would restrict areas of operation, prohibit use on sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless specifically authorized, and require compliance with applicable roadway laws when used on streets. The ordinance would also set equipment standards such as helmets and lighting, operator requirements including a valid driver’s license for roadway operation, age restrictions where appropriate, and misdemeanor enforcement options allowing warnings, citations and vehicle impoundment for repeat or egregious cases.
Staff noted recent state legislation and rulemaking activity and said the city’s attorney reviewed the proposed language to avoid conflict with state law. The staff report referenced ‘‘gross substitute senate bill 61 10’’ and said a Department of Licensing work group is scheduled to work on state definitions and guidance with a due date in October 2027. The chief said the municipal ordinance is intended to ‘‘complement, not conflict’’ with state law by addressing local enforcement gaps.
This was a first reading; council members may propose amendments at second reading before any final vote.
