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Old Tappan council declines local stand‑alone e‑bike ordinance, defers to state rules and targeted enforcement
Summary
Council discussion concluded that state law (Title 39) limits municipal regulation of e‑bikes and that Old Tappan will rely on existing state vehicle code and police presence near schools rather than adopt a stricter local ordinance.
Council members discussed a proposed borough e‑bike ordinance and the limited scope of municipal authority under state vehicle law. Police and council members explained Title 39 (state motor‑vehicle rules) classifies different e‑bike types and restricts the extent to which municipalities may impose additional traffic rules. A police representative described enforcement options and said officers can respond to dangerous behavior near schools and high‑pedestrian locations, but can only regulate on private/quasi‑public property when invited by property owners.
After hearing the police chief’s assessment and examples of where officers could increase presence (assemblies at lower schools, targeted patrols during school pickup), council members agreed it would not be practical or enforceable to adopt a standalone ordinance more restrictive than state law. The mayor and council directed staff to coordinate with the police chief and the schools about targeted enforcement, education for students, and potential signage.
No ordinance vote was taken; council indicated it will monitor state guidance and revisit only if the state law changes or if local circumstances require a different response.
