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Select board adopts ordinance restricting motorized wheeled devices on town recreational property
Summary
After a public hearing, the board adopted an ordinance that bars motorized wheeled devices on town recreational properties to prevent damage and protect safety; the measure cites RSA 41:11-a and RSA 31:39 and establishes a tiered penalty schedule and parental liability for minors.
The select board opened a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to regulate e-bikes, motorized scooters and other wheeled devices on town recreational properties and adopted the measure after a brief public comment period and a small wording amendment.
The ordinance text shown at the hearing says its purpose is "to protect public safety, prevent damage to town recreational facilities, and ensure that parks, fields, and public spaces remain safe and accessible for all residents," and the chair said it was adopted under the town's authority pursuant to RSA 41:11-a and RSA 31:39. Interim town administrator Jack Wozmack described the draft as narrowly tailored to prevent "damage to town hall properties" and said that was the primary intent: "So that's the genesis of this draft," he said.
During public comment, resident Richard Smith urged the board to reference state e-bike classifications and to consider safety measures: "State guidance talks about class 1, class 2, and class 3 vehicles," Smith said, and he recommended reminders about helmet use and prohibiting earbuds. Police leadership at the meeting noted the state already requires helmets for juveniles under 16.
In discussion the board kept the ordinance focused on recreational properties and damage-prevention rather than broader roadway speed or equipment requirements. The adopted penalty schedule in the draft calls for a verbal or written warning and removal for a first offense, a fine of up to $100 for a second offense, and fines up to $250 plus possible suspension from facility use and liability for damages for subsequent offenses; the draft also makes parents or legal guardians jointly and severally liable for minors' damage to town property.
A board member moved to adopt the ordinance with one wording change — adding "areas" after "designated" in the prohibited-conduct section — the motion was seconded and passed. The board closed the public comment portion of the hearing before making the motion.
The ordinance applies only to town recreational properties; members emphasized other state laws and roadway rules remain the framework for off-site e-bike speed or helmet requirements. The board instructed staff to publish the adopted text and to add the finalized signature page.
