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Council holds first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
Council conducted the first reading of Ordinance 2839 to define and regulate electric motorcycles — distinguishing them from e-bikes, restricting sidewalk and trail use, setting equipment and operator requirements, and aligning with pending state rulemaking.
The council heard a staff report on Ordinance 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter that would define “electric motorcycles” and restrict where they may operate within city limits. The city clerk read the ordinance title by title; police staff described the public-safety reasons for the proposal, noting high-powered electric dirt bikes and similar vehicles have been operated on streets, sidewalks and multi-use trails.
The staff report said the draft ordinance would distinguish electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds by power output and speed capability, restrict operation on sidewalks, parks and trails unless specifically authorized, set required lighting and safety equipment for roadway use, require a valid driver’s license for roadway operation, and establish age limits, citation authority and impoundment for repeat or egregious violations. The staff report also referenced recent state-level activity, noting a Department of Licensing work group required under a recently passed Senate bill with a due date in October 2027; staff said the municipal ordinance is intended to complement state law, not conflict with it.
Police staff recommended the council continue the ordinance to a future reading where councilmembers may propose adjustments. No final adoption occurred; the item was presented for first reading and discussion.
