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Council hears first reading of electric-motorcycle ordinance aimed at clarifying enforcement
Summary
On first reading, staff told the Enumclaw City Council the proposed ordinance would define electric motorcycles, distinguish them from e-bikes and mopeds, restrict sidewalk and park use, require licensing and safety equipment, and create enforcement paths including warnings, citations, impound and misdemeanors; the measure responds to resident complaints and recent state legislation.
The Enumclaw City Council heard the first reading of Ordinance 2839 on June 22, a proposed municipal code addition to regulate electric motorcycles.
The city clerk read the ordinance title for the first reading. The police chief presented the staff report, saying electric motorcycles and high-powered electric dirt bikes have become more common and are frequently operated on streets, sidewalks and multiuse trails. "Without clear municipal regulations, enforcement is inconsistent and public safety risks increase," the chief said, describing complaints about unsafe speeds, operation on sidewalks, noise and near-miss incidents involving pedestrians.
The proposed ordinance would create a distinct definition for electric motorcycles — differentiating them from e-bikes and mopeds by power output, speed capability and design — and would limit where they may be used. It would prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless expressly authorized, require compliance with applicable vehicle laws for roadway use, and mandate helmets, lighting and minimum safety equipment. Enforcement tools described in the staff report include warnings, citations, impoundment for repeat or egregious cases, and misdemeanor classifications or civil penalties where appropriate.
Staff cited recent state legislation (Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6110) that establishes a Department of Licensing work group and sets a deadline of October 2027 for state-level guidance; the proposed city ordinance is intended to complement, not conflict with, forthcoming state rules.
This was the first reading; council may propose amendments before a second reading and formal adoption. The staff report said the city attorney has reviewed the draft for consistency with applicable statutes and recommended adoption of the municipal code chapter to enhance enforcement clarity and public safety.
