The Auburn City Council approved new regulations this week governing electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles, giving the city new enforcement tools aimed at unsafe riding on streets, sidewalks, trails and parks.

Ordinance No. 7029 amends Auburn City Code and creates a new chapter addressing electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles. The ordinance distinguishes legal class 1, class 2 and class 3 electric-assisted bicycles from higher-powered electric motorcycles.

“E-bikes can be a fun and convenient way to get around, but they must be operated responsibly,” Mayor Nancy Backus said. “These regulations give riders and families clearer expectations while helping us protect everyone who uses Auburn’s streets, sidewalks, trails and parks.”

The ordinance follows recent changes to Washington state law clarifying electric-assisted bicycle classifications and beginning a regulatory framework for electric motorcycles, the city said. Auburn said faster and more powerful electric vehicles have become increasingly common in Washington communities.

Reckless Riding, Damage to Natural Areas

Auburn has received reports of reckless riding, including incidents involving minors, as well as significant and permanent damage to natural areas and public pathways, according to the city.

Auburn said its previous code did not provide enough enforcement options for newer vehicles that may resemble bicycles but operate at higher speeds and power levels.

Definition of Electric Cycles & Riders

Under the ordinance, an electric motorcycle is generally defined as an electric-powered motorcycle that does not have fully operable pedals, exceeds 750 watts or continues to provide motor assistance at speeds greater than 28 mph.

The new law says electric motorcycles may not be operated in Auburn by anyone younger than 16. Riders must have a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement, and the vehicle must be registered with the Washington state Department of Licensing and display a valid license plate.

Electric motorcycles are prohibited on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, shared-use paths and park trails. They also are prohibited in city-owned or controlled parks, open spaces and other city property, except parking lots.

“This ordinance helps remove some of the confusion surrounding these vehicles and gives our officers clearer standards to apply when unsafe behavior occurs,” Auburn Police Chief Mark Caillier said. “Our focus is not on responsible riders. It is on preventing reckless operation that puts pedestrians and other members of the public at risk, not to mention the riders.”

Class 3 electric-assisted bicycles also may not be operated on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, shared-use paths, park trails or within city-owned parks, open spaces and other city property, except parking lots. The ordinance also prohibits all classes of electric-assisted bicycles within parks that contain bicycle-specific facilities.

“Our trails and pathways are used for walking, strolling, running, and bicycling,” Parks, Arts and Recreation Director Julie Krueger said. “These clearer rules will help protect those spaces from the higher speeds of Class 3 E-bikes and electric motorcycles. These laws are about making our parks safer for every rider, preserving sensitive areas and ensuring they remain an accessible outlet for generations to come.”

Parents, legal guardians and other adults responsible for supervising minors may not knowingly allow a minor in their care to violate the ordinance, according to the city. Guardians who permit a violation may be held jointly responsible with the minor for penalties.

Penalties Start at $125

The Auburn Police Department may issue civil infractions and impound electric-assisted bicycles or electric motorcycles operated in violation of the ordinance. Violators also are responsible for applicable impound, towing, storage and court costs.

Electric motorcycle penalties are $250 for a first violation, $500 for a second violation and $750 for a third or subsequent violation. Electric-assisted bicycle penalties are $125 for a first violation, $250 for a second violation and $375 for a third or subsequent violation.

The city said it plans to provide public education explaining the differences between electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles, where they may legally be operated and the responsibilities of riders, parents and guardians. Ordinance No. 7029 will take effect five days after its passage, approval and publication as provided by law.