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Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
At first reading, staff told the Enumclaw City Council a proposed ordinance would define electric motorcycles, limit sidewalk and trail operation, set equipment and operator requirements and create enforcement options to address safety and enforcement gaps pending state rules.
The Enumclaw City Council on June 22 heard the first reading of Ordinance 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles.
City Clerk Jessica read the ordinance title by reference. The Police Chief delivered the staff report, describing a regulatory gap in municipal code for electric motorcycles — including high-powered electric dirt bikes — and said residents have complained about unsafe speeds, sidewalk operation and near misses.
The Chief said the proposed ordinance would define electric motorcycles and distinguish them from e-bikes and mopeds based on power output, speed capability and design. It would prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multiuse trails unless specifically authorized, require helmets consistent with state law for roadway use, and set lighting and minimum safety-equipment requirements. The proposal would require a valid driver’s license for roadway operation, include age restrictions where appropriate, and create a graduated enforcement system ranging from warnings to citations, impoundment and misdemeanor classification for repeat or egregious cases.
The Chief also referenced recent state action and a Department of Licensing work group: “The passage of gross substitute Senate Bill 6110 has established a need for a Department of Licensing work group to commence working on state regulations for electric motorcycles with a due date of October 2027,” the Chief said, characterizing the local ordinance as intended to complement state law and to provide clarity where state classifications are unclear.
Councilmembers were reminded this was the first reading; the ordinance will return for additional review and possible amendments at a subsequent meeting. No vote on adoption occurred on June 22.
