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Agenda Item No: 1.d
PLACENTIA CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date: July 21, 2026
Submitted by: Frank Garza
From: Police Department
Subject:
SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 0-2026-07, AN ORDINANCE
OF THE CITY OF PLACENTIA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING TO PLACENTIA MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 13.77 (ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND OTHER MOTORIZED MOBILITY DEVICES) TO TITLE 13 (VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC)
Financial Impact:
None.
Summary:
This agenda item provides for the second reading and adoption of the ordinance adding Chapter 13.77 to the Placentia Municipal Code, establishing clear regulations governing the operation of electric bicycles and other motorized mobility devices.
Introduction of Ordinance No. 0-2026-07, occurred on May 5, 2026. At the direction of the City Council, the proposed ordinance was returned for further review and revision, including the incorporation of consistent terminology relating to motorized mobility devices throughout the ordinance.
The revised ordinance was brought back to the City Council for first reading on June 30, 2026. incorporating the requested revisions. This agenda item completes the required second reading and adoption process.
Recommended Action:
It is recommended that the City Council:
Waive full reading, by title only, and adopt Ordinance No. 0-2026-07, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Placentia, California, adding Chapter 13.77 (Electric Bicycles and Other Motorized 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:
1 The use of electric bicycles (e -bikes) and other motorized mobility devices has increased throughout the City, providing transportation and recreational benefits while also creating public safety concerns related to speed, unsafe riding behavior, and conflicts with pedestrians and motorists.
This proposed ordinance establishes clear, locally enforceable regulations governing the operation of electric bicycles and other motorized mobility devices, including operational requirements, speed limits, permitted areas of operation, helmet requirements, prohibited riding behaviors, and enforcement provisions. The ordinance remains consistent with the applicable provisions of the California Vehicle Code.
The introduction of Ordinance No. 0-2026-07, occurred on May 5, 2026. During Council discussion, direction was provided to revise the ordinance to improve clarity and ensure consistent terminology regarding motorized mobility devices. The ordinance was brought back to Council on June 30, 2026, for first reading incorporating the requested revisions.
Following the second reading and adoption by the City Council, the ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty (30) days after passage.
Financial Summary:
The adoption of this Ordinance has no fiscal impact on the City of Placentia.
Attachments
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07 - E-Bike.docx
2 ORDINANCE NO. 0-2026-07
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PLACENTIA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 13.77 (ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND OTHER
MOTORIZED MOBILITY DEVICES) TO TITLE 13 (VEHICLES AND
TRAFFIC) OF THE PLACENTIA MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING THE
OPERATION OF MOTORIZED 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 motorized 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 motorized mobility devices (collectively "motorized mobility devices") has increased significantly throughout the City of Placentia; and
WHEREAS, motorized mobility devices 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 motorized mobility devices poses heightened safety risks; and
WHEREAS, California law authorizes local agencies to regulate the operation of motorized mobility devices within their jurisdiction; and WHEREAS, the purpose of this Ordinance is to promote the safe operation of motorized 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 motorized 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 Motorized 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 motorized mobility devices 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, that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour, and that is equipped with a speedometer.
"Code" means the Placentia Municipal Code, unless otherwise indicated. "Electric bicycle" or "e -bike" shall have the meaning as defined in California Vehicle Code § 312.5 as it may be amended from time to time.
"Electrically motorized board" shall have the meaning as defined in California Vehicle Code § 313.5 as it may be amended from time to time.
"Motorized mobility device" means electric bicycles, motorized or electric scooters, electric skateboards, electrically motorized board, and other electrically or motorized powered transportation devices intended for individual transportation.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
4 "Motorized scooter" has the same meaning as in California Vehicle Code § 407.5 and means 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. This device may also be designed to be powered by human propulsion. A scooter powered by a source other than electrical power is also a motorized scooter.
"Operator" means any person who operates or controls a motorized 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, another public entity or a private party. "Rider" means a traveler riding in or on a motorized mobility device who is not operating it.
"Unsafe Operation" means the operation of a motorized 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 a motorized mobility device unless the operation complies with the following provisions:
(1) Basic Operation. Any person operating a motorized 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 a motorized mobility device in a 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 motorized mobility device to safeguard the operator, passengers, and any other persons, vehicles, or devices in the immediate area. (2) Unsafe Manner. No person shall ride or operate a motorized mobility device in an unsafe manner. "Unsafe manner" shall mean operating a motorized mobility device in a manner that demonstrates willful, wanton or negligent 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.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
5 (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 other motorized 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 a motorized mobility device not designed for passenger riding, or transporting any other person on a motorized mobility device designed for a single rider.
Clinging to or attaching oneself or one's motorized mobility device to another vehicle, another motorized mobility device, or to the operator or rider of another vehicle or motorized mobility device.
(m)
(3) Compliance with Safety Standards. A motorized mobility device shall meet the following criteria:
(a) Comply with 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, as prohibited under California Vehicle Code § 24016(d).
(4) Helmet Requirement. All operators and passengers under eighteen (18) years of age shall wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet while operating or riding a motorized mobility device.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
6 (5) 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, including but not limited to any street, alley or roadway, 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.
(6) Passenger Restrictions. No operator shall transport a passenger on a motorized mobility device, unless the device is designed and equipped for passenger use, and the passenger is seated upon a seat securely attached to the device. (7) Regulation of Class 3 Electric Bicycles.
(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 properly 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 as per California Vehicle Code § 21207.5(a).
(c) Motorized mobility devices shall follow all applicable requirements of this chapter and the California Vehicle Code regulations when operating on a roadway.
(2) Multi -use trails and recreational paths.
(a) Motorized mobility devices shall not exceed 15 miles per hour on multi -use trials or park pathways.
(b) All operators shall yield to pedestrians, equestrians, and non -motorized trail users.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
7 (3) Sidewalks.
(a) Motorized mobility devices may be operated on sidewalks consistent with Placentia Municipal Code § 13.20.050, as follows:
(i) Sidewalks 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 enrolled below the seventh (7th) grade or under twelve (12) years of age.
(b) Motorized mobility devices shall follow all applicable requirements of this chapter and the California Vehicle Code regulations in connection with operation on a sidewalk.
(4) School Zones. Operation of motorized mobility devices within marked school zones during school hours shall not exceed 10 miles per hour unless otherwise posted. (5) Prohibited Areas of Operation. No person shall operate a motorized 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) 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 motorized mobility device operation. (2) Install regulatory signage or markings giving notice of such prohibitions. (3) Establish reduced speed limits for motorized mobility devices in parks, on trails, and in other areas frequented by pedestrians.
(4) Prohibit motorized mobility device operation in designated business districts, as defined in Placentia Municipal Code § 13.04.020, and near schools. § 13.77.050 Parking.
No person shall park or store a motorized mobility device in a manner that:
(1) Obstructs pedestrian travel.
(2) Obstructs ADA access.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
8 (3) Blocks bicycle lanes or public rights-of-way.
§ 13.77.060 Removal, seizure, and release of motorized mobility device operated by minors.
(1) In addition to any fines or penalties authorized by this chapter, a police officer may seize any motorized mobility device 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 created an immediate or substantial risk to public safety. Violations that create an immediate or substantial risk to public safety may include, but are not limited to, the following:
(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 motorized mobility device operation when pedestrians are present or when the use constitutes an immediate or substantial threat to public safety.
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. A motorized mobility device 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 minor child, or 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.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
9 (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 a motorized mobility device while under the influence of alcohol or drugs shall be punishable as a misdemeanor.
(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 this code or 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 motorized mobility devices or other vehicles at any place in the city in performance of their official duties.
§ 13.77.100 Severability.
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.
INTRODUCED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Placentia held on the 30th day of June 2026.
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
10 PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of July 2026.
Chad P. Wanke, Mayor
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 special meeting of the City Council of the City of Placentia, held on the 30th day of June 2026, and was finally adopted at a regular meeting held on the 21st day of July 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:
Robert S. McKinnell, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Christian L. Bettenhausen, City Attorney
Ordinance No. 0-2026-07
11