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Council holds first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles
Summary
Council heard a staff report and held first reading of Ordinance No. 2839 to define and regulate electric motorcycles—separating them from e-bikes—with restrictions on sidewalks/trails, equipment and operator requirements; staff cited recent state actions and enforcement gaps.
The Enumclaw City Council held the first reading of Ordinance No. 2839 on June 22, proposing a new municipal chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles, including high-powered electric dirt bikes now being operated on streets, sidewalks and trails.
The police chief told council members that public complaints include unsafe speeds, operation on sidewalks, and near-miss incidents with pedestrians; staff said many of the riders are juveniles or unlicensed. "The proposed ordinance would define electric motorcycles, establishing a clear definition distinguishing electric motorcycles from e-bikes and mopeds based on power output, speed capability and design," the chief said, adding that the ordinance would restrict operation on sidewalks and multi-use trails and require helmets, lighting, and other safety equipment.
Staff pointed to recent state legislation and a Department of Licensing work group created by Substitute Senate Bill 6110, due to report by October 2027, as part of the rationale for local clarity and complementary regulation. The ordinance is on its first reading; council members may propose amendments at second reading before any adoption vote.
