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Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
On June 22 the council held a first reading of Ordinance No. 2,839 to define and regulate electric motorcycles—distinguishing them from e-bikes and mopeds, restricting sidewalk and trail use, and establishing equipment and operator requirements; staff recommended adoption at a later reading.
The Enumclaw City Council held the first reading of Ordinance No. 2,839 on June 22, a proposed municipal code chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles.
City clerk Jessica read the ordinance title by request of the mayor. The staff presentation said high-powered electric dirt bikes and similar vehicles are increasingly operated on streets, sidewalks and multi-use trails and that Enumclaw Municipal Code currently lacks a clear category for such vehicles. The staff report said that gap "creates ambiguity for riders, law enforcement, and the community regarding where and how these vehicles may be lawfully operated."
The proposed ordinance would define "electric motorcycles" separately from e-bikes and mopeds by reference to power output, speed capability and design; prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multi-use trails unless specifically authorized; require helmets and lighting consistent with state law for roadway operation; set minimum safety-equipment standards; require a valid driver's license for roadway operation; and establish enforcement options including warnings, citations and vehicle impoundment for repeat or egregious violations.
Staff noted related state action and a Department of Licensing work group with an October 2027 due date to develop state rules. "This proposed ordinance is designed to complement, not conflict with, state law," the staff presentation said.
Why it matters: proponents cited public-safety risks—speeding, operation on sidewalks, juvenile or unlicensed riders and near-miss incidents involving pedestrians and vehicles. Because this was a first reading, no council vote on adoption occurred; the ordinance will return for a subsequent reading where councilmembers may amend language and consider adoption.
