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Council hears first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
Council heard first reading of Ordinance 2839 to define and restrict electric motorcycles—separating them from e‑bikes, restricting sidewalk/trail use, and establishing equipment, licensing, and enforcement requirements; staff says state guidance is due in October 2027.
The Enumclaw City Council received the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839, which would add a municipal definition and operating rules for electric motorcycles.
The city clerk read the ordinance title; the Police Chief gave the staff report and told the council the measure is intended to fill a regulatory gap. The chief said electric motorcycles, including high‑powered recreational dirt‑bike types, “are often marketed as recreational or off‑road use devices, but are frequently operated on public streets, sidewalks, and multi use trails within city limits,” creating enforcement ambiguity and safety risks. Staff recommended defining electric motorcycles separately from e‑bikes and mopeds, restricting sidewalk and trail operation unless expressly authorized, requiring driver licensing for roadway operation, setting equipment and lighting standards, and creating a graduated enforcement regime with warnings, citations, and impoundment for repeat or egregious cases.
The staff report referenced recent state legislation and a Department of Licensing workgroup with a due date of October 2027 to develop state guidance; staff said the proposed municipal language is designed to complement—not conflict with—state law. This item was introduced for first reading; council members may offer amendments or comment at the second reading before any adoption vote.
