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Council passes first reading to update traffic code for e-bikes and micromobility devices
Summary
Council approved a first reading to revise Chapter 7, Section 3 of city code to add definitions and rules for e-bikes, scooters and other electric recreational vehicles focused on sidewalk/trail safety and helmet requirements; staff and police will emphasize education before enforcement.
The City Council approved a first reading of an ordinance to update the city's traffic code to better regulate e-bikes, electric scooters and other micromobility devices on streets, sidewalks and trails.
Staff said the existing code had not kept pace with new electric vehicles and that the revisions replace the earlier definitions and add clarifying rules for pedal-assist bikes, scooters and similar devices, particularly for sidewalk and trail use. "We completely lifted our definitions and started over and put them in alphabetical order," the city administrator said, adding the goal is to provide clearer guidance for residents and for police education and enforcement.
Police staff said enforcement has emphasized education to date and that the proposed rules would make it easier to explain and enforce requirements such as helmet use for riders under specified ages and where certain devices are permitted. The item will return for a second reading at the next regular meeting, and staff said they plan an outreach and education campaign for families and schools before citations are issued.
