Council holds first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles

The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 held the first reading of Ordinance 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter intended to regulate electric motorcycles, including high-powered electric dirt bikes, to improve public safety and clarify enforcement.

The police chief told the council that electric motorcycles have become increasingly popular and are often operated on streets, sidewalks and multiuse trails without clear regulation. “Currently, Enumclaw Municipal Code does not specifically address electric motorcycles as a distinct vehicle category,” the Chief said, explaining that the proposed ordinance would define electric motorcycles, distinguish them from e-bikes and mopeds, and set restrictions on where they may be operated.

The staff report said the proposed rules would prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless specifically authorized; require helmets and minimum lighting and safety equipment for roadway use; set operator requirements, including a valid driver’s license for roadway operation; and establish penalties ranging from warnings to citations and impoundment for repeat or egregious violations. The chief also noted the city attorney had reviewed the language to ensure consistency with applicable state statutes.

The staff presentation referenced recent state action on the topic and a state work group due in October 2027: according to the report staff have taken the new state law into account and designed the ordinance to complement, not conflict with, state regulations.

Because this was a first reading, councilmembers may propose amendments before a second reading and final adoption. The staff recommended adoption of a new municipal code chapter to provide enforcement clarity and enhance public safety; no final action was taken at the June 22 meeting.