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Agenda Item No: 3.a
PLACENTIA CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date: May 5, 2026
Submitted by: Frank Garza
From: Police Department
Subject:
PROPOSED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PLACENTIA, ADDING CHAPTER 13.77 (ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND ELECTRIC MOBILITY DEVICES) TO TITLE 13 (VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC) OF THE PLACENTIA MUNICIPAL CODE Financial Impact:
None.
Summary:
The proposed ordinance adds Chapter 13.77 to the Placentia Municipal Code to regulate the operation of electric bicycles (e -bikes) and other electric mobility devices within the City. The ordinance is intended to address increasing safety concerns related to the growing use of these devices, particularly in parks, school zones, sidewalks, and commercial areas.
The ordinance provides clear definitions, establishes operational rules, sets speed limits, designates permissible areas of use, and outlines enforcement mechanisms, including the potential seizure and release requirements.
Recommended Action:
It is recommended that the City Council:
Waive full reading, by title only, and introduce for first reading Ordinance No. 0-2026-07, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Placentia, California, adding Chapter 13.77 (Electric Bicycles and Electric Mobility Devices) to Title 13 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the Placentia Municipal Code.
Strategic Plan Statement:
This item conforms to Strategic Plan Goal No. 2: Public Safety, to provide a safe, family - friendly environment through proactive policing, efficient fire and emergency medical services, disaster preparedness, and strong community partnerships that protect residents, businesses and visitors.
Discussion:
The use of electric bicycles (e -bikes) and other electric mobility devices has increased significantly in recent years throughout the City of Placentia, reflecting broader statewide and national trends. These devices provide important benefits, including expanded mobility options, reduced vehicle emissions, and increased recreational opportunities. However, their 1 growing popularity, particularly among younger riders, has also led to a rise in safety concerns related to speed, rider behavior, and conflicts with pedestrians and motorists.
The City has received complaints and observed issues related to unsafe operation, including excessive speeds on sidewalks, failure to yield to pedestrians, and use in prohibited or sensitive areas such as parks, school zones, and commercial districts. Additionally, advancements in technology have made higher -speed devices more accessible, further increasing the potential for collisions and injuries.
Currently, state law, including the California Vehicle Code, provides a general framework for the classification and operation of e -bikes; however, it allows local jurisdictions to adopt regulations tailored to their specific community needs. The proposed ordinance is intended to supplement state law by establishing clear, locally enforceable standards governing the operation of electric mobility devices within the City.
The proposed Chapter 13.77 establishes comprehensive regulations addressing definitions, operational requirements, permissible areas of use, speed limitations, and safety standards. It also includes provisions to prohibit unsafe riding behaviors, require helmet use consistent with state law, and clarify where different classes of e -bikes may be operated.
To enhance public safety and accountability, the ordinance also introduces enforcement mechanisms, including administrative citations and limited seizure authority for electric bicycles operated by minors when violations pose an immediate or substantial safety risk. The inclusion of parental responsibility provisions further reinforces accountability and encourages safe riding practices among youth.
Importantly, the ordinance provides flexibility by authorizing the City Traffic Engineer or designee to designate restricted areas, adjust speed limits in high -use pedestrian environments, and install appropriate signage. This allows the City to respond to evolving conditions and community needs without requiring frequent amendments to the Municipal Code.
The ordinance has been drafted to ensure consistency with state law while addressing local concerns, and it includes exemptions for individuals with disabilities and public agency personnel performing official duties.
Overall, the proposed ordinance seeks to balance the benefits of electric mobility devices with the need to protect public health, safety, and welfare. By establishing clear rules and expectations, the City aims to reduce collisions, improve shared -use safety, and provide law enforcement with practical tools to address unsafe behavior.
Financial Summary:
None.
Attachments
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07 - E-Bike.docx
EBIKEordinancePP.pptx
2 ORDINANCE NO. 0-2026-07
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PLACENTIA,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 13.77
(ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND ELECTRIC MOBILITY
DEVICES) TO TITLE 13 (VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC) OF
THE PLACENTIA MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING THE
OPERATION OF ELECTRIC MOBILITY DEVICES IN THE
CITY OF PLACENTIA
City Attorney's Summary
This Ordinance would result in an amendment to Title 13 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the Placentia Municipal Code by adding Chapter 13.77 (Electric Bicycles and Electric Mobility Devices). This Chapter imposes regulations on the operation of electric mobility devices within the City of Placentia, including electric bicycles, motorized scooters, electric skateboards, and other electrically powered transportation devices, to promote the safe operation of such devices within the City and to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
WHEREAS, the use of electric bicycles and other electric mobility devices has increased significantly throughout the City of Placentia; and WHEREAS, electric bicycles provide transportation, recreation, and environmental benefits; however, their increasing speed capability and expanded use in pedestrian areas have created safety concerns for residents, pedestrians, and motorists; and WHEREAS, the City of Placentia contains numerous public parks, school zones, and commercial areas where the unsafe operation of electric bicycles poses heightened safety risks; and
WHEREAS, California law authorizes local agencies to regulate the operation of electric bicycles within their jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this Ordinance is to promote the safe operation of electric mobility devices, reduce injuries and collisions, and provide clear and enforceable regulations consistent with state law; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Placentia desires to establish reasonable regulations governing the operation of electric mobility devices within the City to promote public health, safety and welfare.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PLACENTIA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
3 SECTION 1. Chapter 13.77 is hereby added to Title 13 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the Placentia Municipal Code to be read as follows:
Chapter 13.77 Electric Bicycles and Electric Mobility Devices §13.77.010 Definitions
§13.77.020 General operation
§13.77.030 Areas of operation
§ 13.77.040 Designation of areas of operation
§13.77.050 Parking
§13.77.060 Removal, seizure, and release of electric bicycles operated by minors §13.77.070 Responsibility of parent
§13.77.080 Violations and enforcement
§13.77.090 Exemptions
§13.77.100 Severability
§13.77.010 Definitions
As used in this chapter, the following terms and words shall have the following meanings:
"Class 1 electric bicycle" has the same meaning as in California Vehicle Code § 312.5(a)(1) and means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, that is not capable of exclusively propelling the bicycle, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
"Class 2 electric bicycle" has the same meaning as in California Vehicle Code § 312.5(a)(2) and means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
"Class 3 electric bicycle" has the same meaning as in California Vehicle Code § 312.5(a)(3) and means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, that is not capable of exclusively propelling the bicycle, Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
4 that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour, and that is equipped with a speedometer.
"Electric bicycle" or "e -bike" shall have the meaning as defined in California Vehicle Code section 312.5 as it may be amended from time to time. "Electric mobility device" means electric bicycles, motorized scooters, electric skateboards, and other electrically powered transportation devices intended for individual transportation.
"Operator" means any person who operates or controls an electric mobility device. "Public area" means any outdoor area that is open to members of the public for public use, whether owned or operated by the city or a private party. "Rider" means a traveler riding in or on a regulated mobility device who is not operating it.
"Unsafe Operation" means the operation of an electric mobility device in a manner that demonstrates willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property, including but not limited to stunt riding, racing, or reckless maneuvering. §13.77.020 General operation.
It shall be unlawful for any person to ride or operate an electric mobility device unless the operation complies with the following provisions:
(1) Basic Operation. Any person operating an Electric Mobility Device shall, at a minimum:
(a) Comply with all applicable provisions of the California Vehicle Code. (b) Exercise due care and operate at a safe speed appropriate for existing conditions.
(c) Operate an electric mobility device in safe manner. (d) Not transport passengers unless the device is specifically designed and equipped for passenger use.
(e) Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at all times. (f) Exercise due care by taking all other necessary actions relating to operation of the regulated mobility device to safeguard the operator, passengers, and any other persons, vehicles, or devices in the immediate area.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
5 (2) Unsafe Manner. No person shall ride or operate an electric mobility device in an unsafe manner. "Unsafe manner" shall mean operating an electric mobility device in a manner that demonstrates willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property, including but not limited to:
(a) Performing stunts such as wheelies, racing, or reckless maneuvering. (b) Operating in violation of any provision of the Placentia Municipal Code, California Vehicle Code, or any other existing law.
(c) Operating against the direction of traffic on any street, roadway, highway, or bicycle lane.
(d) Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
(e) Operating at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent for existing conditions, taking into account weather, pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and the surface and width of the bicycle or pedestrian facility.. (f) Failing to yield to the right-of-way of pedestrians or vehicles. (g) Failing to obey posted signs.
(h) Carrying any package, bundle or item that prevents the operator from maintaining full control and forward visibility.
(i) Riding without a properly fitted and fastened helmet, if under 18 years of age.
(j) Riding a Class 3 electric bicycle without a properly fitted and fastened helmet, regardless of age.
(k) Passing another pedestrian, vehicle, or regulated mobility device in an unsafe manner, including failing to provide a reasonable and prudent lateral distance, passing at an unsafe speed, or passing in a way that endangers or interferes with the safe movement of the person or device being overtaken.
(I) Transporting any other person upon the bar, handlebars, floorboard or other area of an electric mobility device not designed for passenger riding or transport any other person on an electric mobility device designed for a single rider.
(m)
Clinging to or attaching oneself or one's electric mobility device with an operator or rider
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
6 (3) Compliance with Safety Standards. An electric mobility device shall meet the following criteria:
(a) Comply federal and state manufacturing and safety standards. (b) Display required manufacturer classification labeling. (c) Contain operable pedals as required by law.
(d) Not be modified in a manner that allows the device to exceed lawful speed or motor power limitations.
(4) Parking and Storage. No person shall park or store an electric mobility device in a manner that:
(a) Obstructs pedestrian travel.
(b) Obstructs access required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. (c) Blocks bicycle lanes or public rights of way.
(5) Helmet Requirement. All operators and passengers under eighteen (18) years of age shall wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet while operating or riding an electric mobility device.
(6) Speed Regulations. Operators shall comply with all posted speed limits and operate at a speed that is reasonable and prudent under existing conditions. In addition:
(a) An operator shall not operate at a speed greater than 25 miles per hour on public property unless otherwise authorized by law.
(b) An operator shall not operate at a speed greater than 15 miles per hour on any paved trail or park pathway.
(c) Operation within marked school zones during school hours shall not exceed 10 miles per hour unless otherwise posted.
(7) Passenger Restrictions. No operator shall transport a passenger unless the device is designed and equipped for passenger use, and the passenger is seated upon a seat securely attached to the device.
(8) Regulation of Class 3 Electric Bicycles.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
7 (a) No person under sixteen (16) years of age shall operate a Class 3 electric bicycle.
(b) All operators and passengers of a Class 3 electric bicycle shall wear a property fitted and fastened helmet, regardless of age. §13.77.030 Areas of operation
(1) Roadways.
(a) Class 1 electric bicycles and Class 2 electric bicycles may be operated on public roadways, bicycle lanes, bicycle routes, and separated bikeways. (b) Class 3 electric bicycles may be operated on public roadways and bicycle lanes immediately adjacent to roadways.
(2) Multi -use trails and recreational paths.
(a) Class 3 electric bicycles are prohibited on City -owned or maintained recreational trails and multi -use paths unless authorized by posted signage. (b) Class 1 electric bicycles and Class 2 electric bicycles shall not exceed 15 miles per hour on multi -use trials or park pathways.
(c) All operators shall yield to pedestrians, equestrians, and non -motorized trail users.
(3) Sidewalks.
(a) Operation of electric mobility devices on sidewalks within designated business districts is prohibited.
(b) Outside designated business districts, electric bicycles may be operated on sidewalks as follows:
(i) Designated as City bike routes or bike paths.
(ii) Adjacent to Kraemer Boulevard between Madison Avenue and Fairway Lane.
(iii) In residential areas only when ridden by persons under twelve (12) years of age.
(4) School Zones. Operation of electric mobility devices within marked school zones during school hours shall not exceed 10 miles per hour unless otherwise posted.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
8 (5) Prohibited Areas of Operation. No person shall operate an electric mobility device in or upon:
(a) Athletic fields or sports courts.
(b) Landscaped park areas or unpaved park property.
(c) Drainage channels or flood control facilities
(d) Class 3 electric bicycles are prohibited on City -owned or maintained recreational trails and multi -use paths unless posted as authorized. (e) Areas posted as restricted by the City.
§ 13.77.040 Designation of areas of operation
The City Traffic Engineer or designee is authorized to:
(1) Establish restricted zones for electric mobility device operation. (2) Install regulatory signage or markings giving notice of such prohibitions. (3)
Establish reduced speed limits for electric mobility devices in parks, on trails, and in areas frequented by pedestrians.
(4) Prohibit electric mobility device operation in designated business districts and near schools.
§ 13.77.050 Parking.
No person shall park or store an electric mobility device in a manner that:
(1) Obstructs pedestrian travel.
(2) Obstructs ADA access.
(3) Blocks bicycle lanes or public rights-of-way.
§ 13.77.060 Removal, seizure, and release of electric bicycles operated by minors. (1) In addition to any fines or penalties authorized by this Chapter, a police officer may seize any electric bicycle operated by a minor when the officer has probable cause to believe that the minor committed any violation of this Chapter and that the violation Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
9 created an immediate or substantial risk to public safety. Violations that create an immediate or substantial risk to public safety may include:
(a) Reckless driving or exhibition of speed creating an immediate hazard to persons or property.
(b) Willful disregard for traffic control devices in active traffic, including but not limited to stop signs, traffic signals, or yield controls. (c) Unsafe group riding that obstructs traffic or creates a foreseeable collision risk, including conduct that interferes with the safe movement of vehicles or pedestrians.
(d) Operating in posted areas that prohibit electric bicycle operation when pedestrians are present.
Seizure shall not be authorized for minor technical equipment violations, lawful conduct that does not present an objectively articulable safety risk, or mere presence in a group absent unsafe conduct.
(2) Written notice of seizure and instructions for release procedures shall be provided to the minor and to the parent or legal guardian of the minor. (3) Conditions for release. An electric bicycle seized pursuant to this Chapter shall be released after a minimum of 48 hours, to the minor's parent or legal guardian.
No monetary payment or administrative penalty shall substitute for completion of these requirements.
§ 13.77.070 Responsibility of parent.
The parent of any child, and the guardian of any ward, shall not authorize or knowingly permit any minor child or ward to violate any of the provisions of this Chapter and shall be responsible under this Chapter.
§ 13.77.080 Violations and enforcement.
(1) Violations of this Chapter are infractions unless otherwise provided for in this Chapter or by law. Violation of any provision of this Chapter shall be punishable by an administrative citation and fine, pursuant to the procedures outlined in Chapter 1.10 of this Code. Administrative fines shall be as set forth in § 1.10.030. (2) Operating an electric mobility device while under the influence of alcohol or drugs shall be punishable as a misdemeanor.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
10 (3) In lieu of a fine or administrative citation as authorized by this Code or Chapter, and in lieu of filing charges in any court having jurisdiction over a violation, law enforcement officers may issue warnings, issue citations, refer juvenile offenders to diversion or education programs and impound devices when authorized by state law. § 13.77.090 Exceptions.
The requirements of this chapter shall not apply to:
(1) People with Disabilities. This Chapter is not intended to apply or otherwise restrict regulated mobility devices used in a safe manner by physically disabled persons as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. Sections 12101 et seq.) and section 36.311 of Title 28 of the Code of Federal Regulations. (2) Public Agency Personnel. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter or any other section of this Code, City and public agency personnel may operate electric mobility devices or other vehicles at any place in the City in performance of their official duties.
§ 13.77.100 Exceptions.
If any portion of this chapter, or its application to particular persons or circumstances, is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a final decision of a court of competent jurisdiction, the decision will not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this chapter or the application of this chapter to persons or circumstances not similarly situated.
SECTION 2. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is held invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 3. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days following its adoption.
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and cause it to be published as required by law.
NTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Placentia held on the 5t" day of May 2026.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS DAY OF 2026
Chad P. Wanke, Mayor
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
11 ATTEST:
Robert S. McKinnell, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF ORANGE
I, Robert S. McKinnell, City Clerk of the City of Placentia, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Placentia held on the 5th day of May 2026, and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Placentia, held on the day of , 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
COUNCILMEMBERS:
COUNCILMEMBERS:
COUNCILMEMBERS:
COUNCILMEMBERS:
ATTEST:
Robert S. McKinnell, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Christian L. Bettenhausen, City Attorney
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
12 OtycfPIatia
E -Bike and Electronic Mobility Device Ordinance
Ordinance No. 2026-07
May 5, 2026
13 What is an E -Bike?
The California Vehicle Code defines an e -bike as a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor that does not exceed 750 watts of power (CVC 312.5(a)).
14 Class 1:
- Pedal-assist only
- Motor assistance up to 20 MPH
- Allowed on bike paths/trails
- Not aiiowed on siciewaiks (PMC)
E -Bike Classifications
Class 2:
- Can use throttle exclusively
- Maximum speed of 20 MPH
- Allowed on bike paths/trails
- Not aiiowed cry 3idewaiks (PMC)
Class 3:
- Pedal-assist only
- Must be 16 years old to operate
- Motor assistance up to 28 MPH
- Not aiiowed on siciewaiks (P
- Not allowed on bike
15 What is an Electric / Motorized Scooter?
The California Vehicle Code defines a motorized scooter as any two -wheeled device that has handlebars, has either a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding or a seat and footrests in place of the floorboard, and is powered by an electric motor (CVC 407.5(a)).
16 Motorized / Electric Scooters
- Must be 15 1/2 to operate
- Driver's license or learner's permit required
- Helmet required for riders under 18
- Not allowed on sidewalks
- Not allowed on streets with speed limit over 25 MPH
(unless in a bike lane)
17 Electric Motorcycles / Dirtbikes
(.CC!1,1141.1".
NOT STREET LEGAL
- Off-road use only
- Must be registered as Off -Highway Vehicle (OHV)
- No functioning pedals
18 Questions & Comments
A Lt
Contact Information
Traffic Sergeant Frank Garza
(714) 676-8556
[email protected]