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Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
City staff presented a proposed municipal ordinance defining and restricting high‑powered electric motorcycles after resident complaints and new state guidance. The first reading drew no final vote; staff recommended adoption at a later meeting.
The Enumclaw City Council received a staff presentation on June 22 proposing a new municipal chapter to regulate electric motorcycles, including high‑powered electric dirt bikes, which staff said are increasingly operated on streets, sidewalks and trails.
During the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839, City Clerk Jessica read the ordinance title establishing a new chapter on electric motorcycles and setting an effective date. The police chief explained the proposed code would define electric motorcycles and distinguish them from e‑bikes and mopeds by power output and speed capability. The chief said the lack of a municipal definition has created enforcement ambiguity and public safety concerns, including complaints about excessive speeds, sidewalk operation, noise and near‑miss incidents involving pedestrians.
Staff described key provisions in the draft: restricted use areas (prohibiting operation on sidewalks, parks and multi‑use trails unless specifically authorized), equipment and lighting requirements, helmet and safety equipment consistent with state law, operator requirements including a valid driver’s license for roadway operation and age limits where appropriate, and enforcement options ranging from warnings to citations, impoundment, and penalties for repeat or egregious violations.
The staff report referenced recent state legislation and the Department of Licensing work group process; staff noted a related Senate bill (reported in the staff presentation as "gross substitute Senate Bill 6110") that will prompt state‑level regulatory work with an anticipated work‑group due date in October 2027. Staff said the proposed municipal ordinance is intended to complement state law by addressing local gaps.
This was the ordinance's first reading. Councilmembers may submit edits and the item can return for a second reading and final action at a subsequent meeting. No final vote occurred on June 22.
