Council gets first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles

City staff presented the first reading of Ordinance 2,839 on June 22, proposing a new municipal code chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles and clarify enforcement.

The staff report, delivered by the Chief, said electric motorcycles — including high‑powered electric dirt bikes — are increasingly operated on streets, sidewalks, and multiuse trails and are not clearly addressed in current Enumclaw code. The Chief said the proposed ordinance would "define electric motorcycles, establishing a clear definition distinguishing electric motorcycles from e‑bikes and mopeds based on power output, speed capability and design," and would prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless specifically authorized.

Staff described operator requirements that would require a valid driver's license for roadway operation, set age restrictions where appropriate, mandate helmets consistent with state law, require lighting and minimum safety equipment, and allow enforcement options including warnings, citations and vehicle impoundment for repeat or egregious incidents. The Chief noted the city attorney has reviewed the language for consistency with state statutes and that the proposed municipal approach is intended to complement, not conflict with, state law.

Staff also referenced recent state legislation and a Department of Licensing work group established by Gross Substitute Senate Bill 6110, with a state workgroup due to report by October 2027. City staff recommended council adoption in a future reading; no final vote was taken at the first reading.

What happens next: This was a first reading; council may propose amendments or take final action at a subsequent meeting.