Lake Havasu City Council Eyes New E-Bike Regulations

Lake Havasu City officials are addressing mounting safety concerns regarding electric bikes (e-bikes) in public areas. The City Council is set to discuss a potential ordinance aimed at regulating the operation of e-bikes and similar devices.

This topic will appear on Tuesday’s agenda, following feedback from community members about e-bikes being used on roadways and recreational trails. Mayor Cal Sheehy highlighted this issue during his recent Coffee with the Mayor event, noting that the city is actively listening to residents’ concerns.

The police department is investigating how to best tackle these concerns through new city codes and community education initiatives. As part of their efforts, the city plans to produce an educational video, featuring testimonials from local youth involved in e-bike incidents.

One participant is a student who experienced an accident near Lake Havasu High School earlier this school year. The city aims to promote safe riding practices while allowing residents and visitors to continue enjoying e-bikes.

During discussions, Sheehy stressed the need for balance: “We’re not trying to come in and put a fist down and say stop this. We just want to find some middle ground.” City Manager Jess Knudson reiterated this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that e-bike use does not hinder other recreational activities.

The proposed code amendments will encompass several components. Current regulations on “skateboards, scooters, and skates upon public roadways and sidewalks” were established before e-bikes gained popularity and will now include specific definitions for various mobility devices.

The suggested changes would allow designated areas to be marked where e-bikes are prohibited, with the Public Works Director empowered to install necessary signage. Additionally, the ordinance will outline penalties for non-compliance with the regulations.

Recent data from the Lake Havasu City Police Department indicates an uptick in incidents involving bicycles and e-bikes. From January to August of this year, there were 14 reportable collisions, up from six during the same timeframe last year.

Tuesday’s City Council meeting is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. at 92 Acoma Blvd., where members will consider introducing the new ordinance. A subsequent formal adoption vote will follow in the next meeting.