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Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles in Enumclaw
Summary
On first reading, staff recommended a new municipal code chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles — distinguishing them from e-bikes and mopeds — and to restrict sidewalk, park, and trail operation while establishing equipment, operator and enforcement rules; the ordinance was presented for first reading and will return for further council consideration.
The Enumclaw City Council received a staff presentation June 22 on a proposed ordinance that would create a municipal-code chapter to regulate electric motorcycles including high-powered electric dirt bikes.
The city clerk read Ordinance 2,839 by title as a first reading. The staff report from the police chief described a regulatory gap: “Currently, Enumclaw Municipal Code does not specifically address electric motorcycles as a distinct vehicle category,” the chief said, noting complaints about speed in neighborhoods, sidewalk operation, noise and near-miss incidents involving pedestrians.
The proposed ordinance would define electric motorcycles by power output, speed capability and design to distinguish them from e-bikes and mopeds; restrict use areas by prohibiting operation on sidewalks, parks and multi-use trails unless specifically authorized; require helmets consistent with state law and minimum lighting and safety equipment for roadway operation; and set operator requirements including a valid driver’s license for roadway use and age restrictions where appropriate. The proposal would also create enforcement pathways including warnings, citations, impoundment and misdemeanor classifications for egregious or repeated violations.
Staff said the ordinance is designed to complement state law and to align with a Department of Licensing work group created after recent state legislation (transcript references a senate bill and a state work group with an October 2027 deadline). The police chief recommended the council adopt the municipal code chapter to provide clarity for enforcement and to enhance public safety.
Why it matters: councilmembers will consider whether city-specific definitions and enforcement tools are necessary while state-level rules are being developed. The first reading allows councilmembers to suggest changes before a formal second reading and vote.
Next steps: the ordinance was taken as a first reading; councilmembers may add comments at the second reading and the item will return for future consideration.
