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Council hears first reading of electric-motorcycle ordinance to clarify use, safety and enforcement
Summary
Council members heard a staff presentation on Ordinance 2839, a first reading to define and regulate electric motorcycles (distinct from e-bikes), restrict some uses, set equipment and operator requirements, and provide enforcement options; second reading and amendments remain possible.
The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 heard the first reading of Ordinance 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter that would define and regulate electric motorcycles, including higher-powered electric dirt bikes often operated on streets and sidewalks.
Police staff said the change is intended to close a regulatory gap the city currently has for these devices, which they said are frequently operated on sidewalks, trails and public rights-of-way and can reach speeds comparable to gasoline motorcycles. "These vehicles are often marketed as recreational or off-road use devices, but are frequently operated on public streets, sidewalks, and multi-use trails within city limits," the chief told council during the staff report.
Key provisions described in the staff presentation include a clear definition distinguishing electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds based on power and speed, restrictions on operation in sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless specifically authorized, a requirement that roadway operation comply with applicable vehicle laws, mandated helmets consistent with state law, lighting and safety equipment standards, minimum safety performance requirements for vehicles used on public streets, operator requirements such as a valid driver's license and age limits where appropriate, and graduated enforcement options (warnings, citations, impoundment for repeat or egregious offenses).
Staff referenced recent state-level work: council was told that a state substitute bill (identified in the staff report as Substitute Senate Bill 6110) has prompted the Department of Licensing to convene a work group and set an October 2027 due date for state guidance on electric-motorcycle definitions and regulation. City staff said the proposed municipal ordinance is designed to complement, not conflict with, future state rules.
Why it matters: Council members were told the ordinance would offer clearer enforcement authority and safety protections in the near term while state-level rules are developed. Because it was a first reading, council may propose amendments and make further comments at the second reading before adoption.
Next steps: The ordinance was read by title only for its first reading. Council did not vote to adopt on June 22; staff will return with any suggested amendments at the next reading.
