Ramsey adopts ordinance restricting e-scooters, e-bikes on sidewalks and in parks

The Borough of Ramsey mayor and council adopted Ordinance 24-2025 at their Nov. 12, 2025 meeting, creating section 7-45 of the borough code to regulate skateboards, scooters, motorized devices and low-speed electric bicycles.

The ordinance, introduced and explained by Mr. Vose, prohibits low‑speed electric powered bicycles and scooters on borough sidewalks, in borough parks and on the town bike path unless an area is specifically marked to allow their use. "This ordinance establishes a code section to provide regulation and guidance on the increase in operation of electrical bicycles, scooters, and similar motor powered devices on public streets, sidewalks, and other public and private property throughout the borough," Mr. Vose said, describing the measure as aimed at improving safety for pedestrians, motorists, riders and visitors.

Council President Peter Kilman highlighted the safety rationale during discussion, saying the borough has seen a small number of accidents involving scooters and e-bikes and emphasized outreach: the police department is preparing a PowerPoint presentation to explain the rules to schools and the public. "We have had a few accidents with these scooters, but thankfully nobody was seriously injured," Kilman said, adding that nearby Floren Park has experienced more serious incidents.

The ordinance frames the rules as safety‑focused rather than punitive and directs the borough to identify designated areas where such devices are permitted. The council took a roll call and adopted the ordinance; the governing body also noted plans for enforcement and community education led by the police department.

The ordinance is now part of borough code; the borough clerk was directed to publish the ordinance title and adoption notice as required by law.