Bicycle and E-Bike Ordinance

At a glance

What: A proposed ordinance amending Chapter 36 of the Municipal Code to set operating rules for bicycles and electric bicycles, including safekeeping and impound authority in certain circumstances and penalties.
Where it stands: Introduced for first reading on 2026-10-20 after a Police Traffic Division presentation.
Next: Second reading and adoption.

Definitions follow state law (Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes).
A 10 mph maximum on sidewalks and 5 mph in or next to school zones or when pedestrians or children are present.
Prohibited behaviors include carrying passengers on bikes not made for them and lifting wheels off the ground.
Safekeeping when a minor is in immediate danger and no parent is present; impound of Class 3 e-bikes operated by minors under 16 for 48 hours, then release to a parent.
A hearing process to contest safekeeping, impoundment or seizure, and safety training for certain Class 3 violations.

Staff presented. Motion to introduce for first reading carried on a roll call of yes votes; the clerk's tally was not fully audible in the recording.