Council reviews first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles

The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 took the first reading of Ordinance 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles within city limits.

The city’s police chief presented the staff report, saying complaints have come in about high speeds, sidewalk operation, noise and near misses involving high-powered electric dirt bikes and similar vehicles. "This regulatory gap creates ambiguity for riders, law enforcement, and the community regarding where and how these vehicles may be lawfully operated," the police chief told council. Staff recommended a definition that distinguishes electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds by power output and speed capability and sets where they may be operated.

Under the proposed language staff outlined, the ordinance would restrict operation on sidewalks, parks and multi-use trails unless specifically authorized; require helmets and lighting consistent with state law; establish minimum safety equipment for roadway use; and set operator requirements such as a valid driver’s license and age limits where appropriate. Staff also proposed enforcement options ranging from warnings to citations, impoundment for repeat or egregious cases, and misdemeanor classifications for some offenses.

Staff noted the ordinance is intended to complement, not conflict with, recent state action. The police chief cited a recently passed state substitute bill that directed the Department of Licensing to convene a work group on electric-motorcycle rules with a due date in October 2027; the proposed municipal code is framed to address local safety questions while that state process proceeds.

Because this was a first reading, councilmembers may offer amendments at a later meeting; no final vote on the ordinance was taken tonight.