High-Speed Pedestrian Conveyances
At a glance
Based on auto-generated captions; names and details may be misheard.
- What: a new term in the proposed ordinance for devices (often called e-motos) with motors over 750 W or capable of more than 20 mph on level ground under motor power alone.
- Where it stands: staff proposed prohibiting them from public right-of-way and public property; discussed 2026-10-19 as part of Micromobility Ordinance Update.
- Next: included in the revised ordinance; staff expect the state may eventually act.
Why
- Iowa has no definition, registration or licensing for these devices, so they cannot meet motor vehicle rules, and they are too fast for trails and sidewalks. Steve Neighbor reported speeds up to about 54 mph and wanted them distinguished from ordinary bicycles and low-speed e-bikes.
- Motorcycles and mopeds stay on roadways; other power-driven mobility devices for people with disabilities are allowed as federal ADA rules require.
Concerns raised
- How police could tell a high-speed device from a legal one, especially when riders are teenagers or younger.
- Whether to go after parents or sellers; staff said that is better handled by state law, though council may add it.
- Education (county, West Des Moines and metro campaigns were shown).
Status and next steps
- Open.
Sources
- 2026-10-19 - City Council Work Session (video and auto-generated transcript)
Discussion time
About 7 minutes across 1 meeting (from transcript timestamps; approximate).
| Meeting | Minutes |
|---|---|
| 2026-10-19 - City Council Work Session | 7 |
Log
- 2026-10-19 - City Council Work Session — new definition and proposed prohibition presented; council asked about enforcement and parental responsibility (about 7 minutes).