Redlands approves new e-bike regulations

REDLANDS, Calif. — New rules to regulate electric bicycles on city and private property in Redlands passed unanimously Tuesday night.

Why it matters: The ordinance comes as officials respond to a surge in e-bike use and complaints about unsafe riding in parks and along popular trails.

What it means for e-bike riders: The ordinance (No. 3000) would amend city code (RMC Chapter 10.56) to address public safety concerns tied to increased e-bike use and align city regulations with California law.

The ordinance defines what constitutes an e-bike, requires that they not be operated in an unsafe manner and establishes penalties for violations.

If adopted, the ordinance would formally define legal e-bikes as bicycles with fully operable pedals and a motor under 750 watts, consistent with California’s three-class system.

Riders would be prohibited from operating an e-bike in an “unsafe manner” on public property or private property open to the public. Unsafe riding includes performing wheelies, riding against traffic, swerving around vehicles, ignoring traffic signals, riding recklessly near pedestrians or carrying passengers on bikes not designed for them.

E-bikes may be ridden on sidewalks at speeds of no more than 5 mph, but not in business districts, near public schools while in session, at recreation centers when in use, at churches during services or anywhere posted signage prohibits it.

Riders under 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet. The ordinance also prohibits handheld cellphone use while riding unless the device is hands-free.

Violations would be treated as infractions punishable by a $1,000 fine for a first offense and $2,000 for subsequent violations.

“As e-bike usage has become more popular over the last few years, and we anticipate it will continue and grow in our future, this ordinance is intended to address public safety concerns associated with the increased use of e-bikes in the city,” Police Chief Rachel Tolber told the council.

The Redlands Police Department has already begun an educational campaign with city partners, Tolber said, including outreach efforts with Redlands Unified School District.

City Council discusses spike in complaints: Council members cited complaints about riders using e-bikes in city parks, along the Orange Blossom Trail and at the Sports Park, where some have reportedly built dirt jumps.

“I don’t think the kids mean any harm,” Mayor Mario Saucedo said, noting the city has nonetheless received numerous complaints.

Mayor Pro Tem Marc Shaw asked how electric scooters would be treated under the ordinance.

Deputy Chief Jeremy Floyd said the ordinance applies only to e-bikes, which are defined as having pedals. Electric vehicles without pedals are considered motorcycles under state law.

“Just because they’re electric doesn’t change the fact that they’re considered the same as a dirt bike or a motorcycle,” Floyd said.

Electric motorcycles require an M1 license endorsement and are generally not permitted on trails such as the Orange Blossom Trail, which is not considered a roadway. Floyd said unregistered electric motorcycles are typically impounded.

Assistant City Manager Chris Boatman addressed concerns about an area north of the Orange Blossom Trail between Judson and Lincoln streets that has been used for dirt ramps and jumps. Boatman said the property is split between the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority and Union Pacific Railroad, limiting the city’s direct authority.

The city has contacted Union Pacific in the past regarding public safety concerns, Boatman said, but enforcement on private property can be complicated and often requires cooperation from the landowner.

One resident speaking via Zoom urged the council to table the ordinance to allow more time for questions. Council members said they were satisfied with staff’s responses and proceeded with the vote.

The council voted 5-0 to introduce Ordinance No. 3000. A second reading is required before the ordinance is formally adopted.