Council holds first reading of e‑bike and e‑scooter ordinance; police to lead education and enforcement

The Columbus City Council held a first reading of Ordinance 26‑15, a proposed amendment to city code Chapters 70 and 71 to define and regulate e‑bikes, hoverboards and lightweight e‑scooters. "It modernizes the language to include definitions that are clear and concise for law enforcement to be able to enforce, and for the public to understand what is allowed," said Captain Jamie Levander of the Columbus Police Department.

Levander said the draft narrows ebike categories, adds explicit language for e‑scooters, and aims to keep those devices off roadways posted above 25 mph for safety. He emphasized education as a first step before enforcement. Council members discussed whether to require registration or a fee; some members opposed registration, saying it would place additional burdens on police and residents and prefer to start with the ordinance now and add measures later if necessary. One council member noted that waiving additional readings would require a supermajority of six of eight votes.

A resident who spoke during the meeting asked whether the police department has enough staff to enforce the ordinance. The mayor responded that the ordinance gives officers clearer authority to stop unsafe behavior and described proposed penalties: a $50 fine for a first offense, $50–$100 for a second, $100 for a third, and the police may confiscate a unit if deemed necessary; confiscated units would be released only to an adult. Levander added that the police department has a social media education campaign ready to roll out once the ordinance advances.