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Police chief presents first reading of electric-motorcycle ordinance to limit e-dirt bikes
Summary
During the June 22 meeting the council heard first reading of Ordinance 2839, which would define electric motorcycles, restrict use on sidewalks/trails, require licensing, helmets and safety equipment, and create enforcement options; staff said the ordinance complements recent state legislation.
The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 received the first reading of Ordinance No. 2,839, a proposed municipal-code chapter that would define and regulate electric motorcycles and limit their operation in parks, on sidewalks and on multiuse trails.
The Police Chief delivered the staff report, saying electric motorcycles—including high-powered electric dirt bikes—are increasingly used on streets, sidewalks and trails and that current municipal code lacks a clear category for these vehicles. "This regulatory gap creates ambiguity for riders, law enforcement, and the community regarding where and how these vehicles may be lawfully operated," the Chief said.
Under the proposed ordinance staff described to the council, electric motorcycles would be distinguished from ebikes and mopeds by power output, speed capability and design. The ordinance would restrict use areas, prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless specifically authorized, and require compliance with applicable vehicle laws for roadway use. Staff recommended equipment and safety requirements, helmet use consistent with state law, lighting and minimum safety standards for roadway operation, operator requirements (including a valid driver's license on roadways) and age limits where appropriate.
The Chief also said the ordinance would create enforcement options ranging from warnings to citations, impoundment for repeat or egregious violations, and misdemeanor classifications for certain offenses. Staff noted recent state legislation—referred to in the staff report as "gross substitute senate bill 61 10"—and said a Department of Licensing work group is scheduled to develop state regulations by October 2027; the municipal ordinance is intended to complement, not conflict with, state law.
City Attorney review was reported to have been completed to ensure consistency with applicable statutes. This was a first reading by title; councilmembers may propose edits before a second reading and final vote at a later meeting.
