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Council reviews ordinance to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters; age, speed and path limits proposed
Summary
A proposed Highland municipal code chapter (Ordinance No. 1852) would classify Class 1–3 e-bikes, set age minimums, equipment requirements, helmet rules for under-16 riders, and where devices may operate; councilors discussed enforcement and deferred golf-cart policy.
Town Attorney Reed presented a detailed draft ordinance to add Chapter 10.50 to the Highland Municipal Code, defining and regulating electric bicycles (Class 1–3) and electric scooters.
Reed framed the draft as an attempt to reduce hazardous riding: "This ordinance will definitely curtail the recklessness that we are currently seeing," he said. The draft defines Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (750-watt motor, assist to 20 mph; Class 2 may have a throttle) and Class 3 e-bikes (assist to 28 mph), sets minimum ages (Class 1–2 at 15, Class 3 at 16 with a driver's license), and requires helmets for riders under 16. It also establishes equipment standards (brakes, lights/reflectors, speedometer for Class 3) and prohibits operation on sidewalks except where signage permits.
The draft allows e-bikes and e-scooters on streets and bike lanes consistent with bicycle rules, permits use on multi-use paths unless otherwise restricted by the Town or a managing authority, and reserves authority to the police chief or Traffic Safety Commission to post local restrictions. Councilor Philip Scheeringa and Councilor Doug Turich described a perceived improvement in neighborhood riding behavior after increased police presence and asked that the parks department be allowed to post localized rules for trails.
The council did not adopt the measure on July 6; Attorney Reed recommended members review the draft and return with suggested edits and signage points for parks and bike paths.
