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Council hears first reading of electric-motorcycle ordinance to clarify enforcement
Summary
Council held a first reading of Ordinance 2839 to define and regulate electric motorcycles separately from e-bikes and mopeds, citing state action and local safety complaints; staff recommended adopting new municipal code language to clarify enforcement and set equipment, age and licensing requirements.
The city clerk read Ordinance 2839 by title, initiating the first reading of a proposed municipal chapter that would define "electric motorcycles" and regulate their use. The Police Chief, presenting the staff report, said the new language is intended to close a regulatory gap and improve enforcement: "Staff recommended the city council adopt a new municipal code establishing regulations for the operation of electric motorcycles within the city of Enumclaw to enhance public safety, provide enforcement clarity," the chief said.
Staff told the council electric motorcycles — often high-powered dirt-bike style vehicles — are being operated on streets, sidewalks and trails, creating safety concerns. The proposal would distinguish electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds based on power output and speed capability, prohibit operation on sidewalks and multi-use trails unless authorized, and require helmets, lighting and minimum safety equipment for roadway operation. The chief cited recent state legislation (Substitute Senate Bill 6110) directing a Department of Licensing work group with an October 2027 deadline and said the city ordinance is intended to complement state efforts and address local enforcement gaps.
This was a first reading; council members were reminded they could comment further at the second reading. No ordinance adoption vote occurred at this meeting.
