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Council holds first reading on electric-motorcycle ordinance to clarify local rules
Summary
Council read Ordinance No. 2839 for first consideration, aiming to define electric motorcycles, restrict sidewalk and park operation, require safety equipment and licensing, and align local rules with forthcoming state guidance; staff highlighted safety complaints and recommended adoption at a later reading.
The Enumclaw City Council held a first reading of Ordinance No. 2839 on June 22, proposing a new municipal code chapter to regulate electric motorcycles.
Police leadership told the council that high-powered electric motorcycles and dirt bikes are increasingly operated on streets, sidewalks and trails, creating confusion for riders and law enforcement. "This regulatory gap creates ambiguity for riders, law enforcement, and the community regarding where and how these vehicles may be lawfully operated," the chief said during the staff presentation. The proposed ordinance would distinguish electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds by power output and speed capability, restrict use on sidewalks, parks and multi-use trails unless specifically authorized, and require helmets, lighting and minimum safety equipment for roadway operation.
Staff noted state-level work already under way: a recent enactment (cited in staff comments as Senate Bill 6110) directs the Department of Licensing to convene a work group and issue guidance by October 2027. The ordinance is written to complement state law and to provide local clarity in the interim, including enforcement options ranging from warnings to citations and impoundment for repeat or egregious violations. Councilmembers were reminded this is the first reading; additional amendments and a formal vote could come at the second reading.
What happens next: The ordinance was read by title only and received a staff report; council may propose changes and will consider a second reading and vote at a future meeting.
