Summer is upon us, bringing warmer weather, longer days, and an increase in residents using bikes and scooters on Snoqualmie’s sidewalks, paths, and streets.
If you’re planning to ride an e-bike or e-scooter around town, it’s crucial to understand the local laws to ensure the safety of everyone sharing the roads and trails.
Legal Electric Wheeled Recreational Devices
- Electric Bikes 750 Watts or Below –Check your bike for information on make, model, and specifications. Bikes from 2018 onward must have the class number, top assisted speed, and wattage labeled on the bike itself.
- Class 1 and 2 Electric Bicycles –These e-bikes stop assisting propulsion at 20 mph. Class 1 motors provide assistance only when the rider is pedaling, while Class 2 motors can exclusively propel the bicycle.
- Class 3 Electric Bicycles –These e-bikes assist only when the rider pedals and stops at 28 mph. They come with speedometers and have specific regulations: riders must be 16 or older, and these bikes cannot be used on shared-use paths, sidewalks (unless there is no alternative), or trails designated as non-motorized with natural surfaces.
- E-Scooters
Illegal E-Bikes
- Electric-Looking Dirt Bikes –These are not legal on public roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, parks, or trails, even if equipped with taillights or blinkers. To be street legal, they would require a license plate, registration, and insurance, similar to a motorcycle.
E-Bike and E-Scooter Use Laws
- Operators must follow all road rules and avoid negligent operation that endangers people or property or obstructs lawful travel.
- E-scooters and Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks unless no alternative exists.
- Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited on shared-use paths.
- E-bikes and e-scooters cannot be used on trails designated non-motorized with natural surface tread.
The City of Snoqualmie, along with the Snoqualmie Police and Fire Departments, strongly recommend wearing a helmet while riding e-bikes and e-scooters to reduce the risk of head injuries in case of an accident.
The Snoqualmie Police Department is launching a Public Education campaign on e-bikes and e-scooters. Follow the City of Snoqualmie and Snoqualmie Police Department on social media for more information.
