By Shayan Abbasi
On Tuesday, September 18, the Fountain Valley City Council approved new regulations on the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes), a move meant to increase safety and clarify rules for riders.
As the popularity of e-bikes has surged in recent years, municipalities across the state have been reevaluating regulations to ensure the safety of both riders and pedestrians. Fountain Valley’s move follows up with the broader efforts to combine e-bikes into existing traffic while also addressing concerns about their misuse.
The City Council passed the ordinance which introduces amendments to the municipal code, defining various modes of transportation, including e-bikes, mopeds, motor-driven cycles and pocket bikes. The decision follows similar actions by other cities looking to address rising concerns about e-bike safety and traffic violations.
Under the new rules, riders are required to follow the same safety guidelines as other motor vehicles under the California Vehicle Code. This includes adhering to traffic flow, obeying posted signs and addressing speed-related issues, which have become more prominent with the growing use of electric bikes in the community. Violations, which include reckless riding or exceeding speed limits, could result in fines or the impoundment of the e-bikes.
In a report submitted to the city council, city staff highlighted growing concerns about unsafe riding behaviors, such as e-bikes being used on sidewalks, speeding in residential areas, and failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. These issues have been particularly prominent near schools, where younger riders are seen weaving through traffic without helmets.
“E-bikes often travel at speeds up to 28 miles per hour, with some modified versions reaching speeds close to 60 miles per hour,” the city council’s agenda states. “Due to the state level’s lack of regulation and oversight, E-bikes have become a nuisance to drivers and pose a danger to both themselves and other vehicles. This has led to increased collisions and personal injuries, causing significant traffic disruptions”
The ordinance also includes provisions for e-bike riders under 18, who are now required to wear helmets at all times. The council expressed hope that this would reduce the number of e-bike-related injuries among minors, a growing concern in the community.
City officials reiterated that the ordinance is designed to reduce unsafe riding practices and enhance public safety, especially in areas like Mile Square Park, which pedestrians and cyclists frequently visit.
For more details on the specific amendments to the municipal ordinance, the entirety of the amendment can be read here: Fountain Valley City Council Regular Meeting Agenda
