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Council hears first reading of electric‑motorcycle ordinance to restrict sidewalk and park operation
Summary
City staff presented the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839 to define and regulate electric motorcycles—distinguishing them from e‑bikes and mopeds, requiring helmets, lighting, licensing and enabling enforcement options—with staff saying the measure fills a local regulatory gap while state rules are developed.
At the June 22 meeting the council heard the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839, which staff said would define electric motorcycles, distinguish them from e‑bikes and mopeds, and set operational, equipment and licensing requirements to improve public safety.
City Police Chief (speaker 11) told the council that high‑powered electric dirt bikes and similar vehicles are increasingly operated on streets, sidewalks and multi‑use trails and that Enumclaw Municipal Code does not currently define those vehicles. The staff report said the proposed ordinance would restrict use areas (prohibiting sidewalks, parks and multi‑use trails unless specifically authorized), require helmets consistent with state law, require lighting and minimum safety equipment for roadway use, and set operator requirements (a valid driver's license and age restrictions where appropriate).
The chief referenced recent state legislation and a Department of Licensing work group: “Substitute Senate Bill 6110 has established a need for a Department of Licensing work group…with a due date of October 2027,” he said, noting the municipal ordinance is intended to complement state regulation and provide local enforcement clarity in the interim.
This was a first reading; councilmembers were reminded they may add or amend language at the second reading. No vote to adopt the ordinance occurred that night.
