Vineyard officials weigh local rules, enforcement for high-powered electric motorcycles

Chief Deputy Holden told the Vineyard City Council on July 7 that recent state changes require the city to decide how to regulate a range of electric mobility devices — from motor-assisted scooters and e-bikes to high-powered electric motorcycles — on sidewalks, trails and roads. Holden said the state will narrow some restrictions next year and leave sidewalk/trail rules to local jurisdictions.

"I was pacing a dad with his little kid doing 40 miles an hour on the sidewalk on his electric motorcycle," Holden said while describing recent enforcement encounters. Deputies have focused on education and voluntary compliance; Holden said impoundment has been reserved for high-risk incidents such as fleeing from officers. Residents reported repeated wheelies and 40-mph rides near homes and on the lakefront trail. "My wife did get brushed, almost run over," resident Keith Vincent said.

Council members expressed sympathy for recreation but emphasized public-safety risks on multi-use trails and sidewalks. Several councilmembers and the sheriff’s representative said they prefer an education-focused approach now but asked staff to draft a recommended local ordinance or code language to clarify where certain devices would be allowed, the applicable speed limits and minimum age or helmet requirements. The council directed Holden and the city attorney to prepare recommendations for sidewalks, trails and parks before the state statute changes next year.