Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
Council held a first reading of Ordinance No. 2839 to define and restrict electric motorcycles, including limits on sidewalks and trails, equipment and licensing requirements, and penalties; staff cited resident complaints and a pending state work group on regulation.
The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 received a staff report and a first reading of Ordinance No. 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter that would define and regulate electric motorcycles.
City Clerk Jessica read the ordinance title, and the Police Chief gave the staff presentation, saying electric motorcycles — including high‑powered dirt‑bike models — have been increasingly operated on streets, sidewalks and multi‑use trails and that the current municipal code does not clearly address them. "Without clear municipal regulations, enforcement is inconsistent and public safety risks increase," the Police Chief said.
The staff proposal would distinguish electric motorcycles from e‑bikes and mopeds by power output, speed capability and design; restrict operation on sidewalks, in parks and on multi‑use trails unless expressly authorized; require helmets and basic lighting and safety equipment for roadway use; and allow enforcement options from warnings to citations and impoundment for repeat or egregious violations. The staff report also recommended operator requirements, including a valid driver's license and age restrictions where appropriate.
The Police Chief told council staff have received resident complaints about unsafe speeds, sidewalk operation and near misses involving pedestrians and vehicles. The staff memo referenced recent state legislation and a Department of Licensing work group due in October 2027 to develop state guidance on electric motorcycles.
This was the ordinance's first reading; council did not vote. Council members were reminded that amendments and further comment are possible at second reading.
