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Council holds first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
On first reading the council heard staff describe Ordinance No. 2839, which would define and regulate electric motorcycles to limit sidewalk and trail use, require equipment and operator standards, and provide enforcement tools; staff recommended adopting a new municipal code chapter to address safety gaps.
The Enumclaw City Council held a first reading June 22 of Ordinance No. 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter to regulate electric motorcycles. The city read the ordinance’s title and the Chief presented the staff report, saying the proposal responds to a regulatory gap and resident complaints about high-powered electric motorcycles operated on streets, sidewalks and multi-use trails.
The staff report described key provisions: a clear definition of electric motorcycles to distinguish them from e-bikes and mopeds based on power and speed capability; prohibition of operation on sidewalks, parks and multi-use trails unless specifically authorized; required equipment and lighting for roadway use; helmet requirements consistent with state law; operator requirements including a valid driver’s license and age restrictions; and enforcement options ranging from warnings to citations and vehicle impoundment for repeat or egregious cases. The presenter said the ordinance is intended to “complement, not conflict with, state law.”
Staff noted recent state legislation requires a Department of Licensing work group to develop regulations by October 2027; the staff report referenced the state bill as prompting local clarity while state rules are pending. The staff recommended council adopt the new municipal code chapter to enhance public safety and provide enforcement clarity.
This was a first reading: the ordinance was read by title and discussed in staff report. Council did not take final action at the June 22 meeting; further review and a second reading are expected before any adoption.
