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Enumclaw council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
At its June 22 meeting, the Enumclaw City Council heard the first reading of Ordinance 2839 to define electric motorcycles, restrict their use on sidewalks, parks and trails, and set equipment and operator standards; staff recommended adopting municipal rules to fill gaps left by state law.
Enumclaw — The City Council on June 22 heard the first reading of Ordinance 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles and clarify where and how those vehicles may be operated.
The city’s police chief, presenting the staff report, said electric motorcycles “including high powered electric dirt bikes and similar vehicles, have become increasingly popular in recent years,” and that the vehicles are often used on streets, sidewalks and multiuse trails with inconsistent enforcement. The chief told council the ordinance would establish a municipal definition that distinguishes electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds based on power output, speed capability and design, and would restrict use on sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless explicitly authorized.
Staff said the draft also would require helmets consistent with state law, lighting and other safety equipment for roadway operation, set operator requirements such as a valid driver’s license for roadway use, and create a graduated set of enforcement tools including warnings, citations and vehicle impound for repeat or egregious violations. The chief said the city attorney reviewed the proposed language to ensure it complements, not conflicts with, state law and noted a state Department of Licensing work group is scheduled to produce guidance by October 2027.
Council members were reminded that this was a first reading and that they may propose amendments at a second reading. No final action was taken on June 22; the ordinance will return for further consideration at a later meeting.
