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Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
On first reading June 22, Enumclaw staff and the police chief proposed Ordinance 2,839 to define and restrict high-powered electric motorcycles in public spaces, set equipment and operator standards, and provide enforcement tools to address safety and enforcement gaps.
The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 took the first reading of Ordinance 2,839, a proposed municipal code chapter that would define electric motorcycles and set local rules for their operation.
City Clerk Jessica read the ordinance title by title only, a standard procedural step for a first reading. The police chief then presented the staff report, outlining safety and enforcement challenges posed by high-powered electric motorcycles and similar vehicles that have been operated on streets, sidewalks and multi-use trails.
“The proposed ordinance would define electric motorcycles, establishing a clear definition distinguishing electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds,” the chief said, and described proposed restrictions on use areas, a prohibition on sidewalks and trails unless specifically authorized, and requirements for helmets, lighting and minimum safety equipment for roadway operation.
Staff told the council that complaints from residents include unsafe speeds in residential neighborhoods, operation on pedestrian facilities and noise concerns, and that riders are frequently unlicensed or juvenile operators. The chief said the city attorney reviewed the draft to ensure consistency with state law and that the ordinance is intended to complement, not conflict with, pending state work: a department of licensing work group tied to Substitute Senate Bill 6110 has until October 2027 to develop statewide rules.
The ordinance would also authorize enforcement options ranging from warnings to citations and, in repeat or egregious cases, vehicle impoundment. Staff recommended adoption at later readings to provide clearer local standards and enforcement authority.
Because this was a first reading, councilmembers may offer amendments and the ordinance will return for a second reading before final action.
