Weekly Report – May 22, 2026

Ride Responsibly This Summer

As summer approaches and the weather improves, we know e-bike and e-scooter activity throughout our community will increase. These devices can be a fun and convenient way to travel, but safety must remain the top priority for riders of all ages.

Last August, the City Council adopted new regulations for motorized scooters and electric bicycles in response to community concerns about unsafe riding behaviors. Many residents may not realize that, under Washington State law, riders under 16 are prohibited from operating these vehicles on city streets and sidewalks unless a city adopts local regulations allowing it. The City Council took action to create rules that improve safety for riders, pedestrians, and drivers alike.

The ordinance includes several important safety requirements:

• Riders under 16 must properly wear a helmet.
• Lights are required when riding after dark.
• Only one rider is allowed per vehicle.
• An adult must supervise riders under 12.
• Riders must follow the rules of the road when operating in the street.
• Riders using the roadway must stay on the far right side and travel in the correct direction of traffic.
• Riders under 16 years of age, must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and to vehicles entering or exiting driveways and parking lots. Riders over 16 are prohibited from riding on sidewalks.
• Unsafe riding behaviors may result in a stop by law enforcement officers.
• Riders under 16 may only ride on roads with posted speed limits of 25 MPH or less.

Violations of these rules may result in the confiscation of the scooter or e-bike, which would only be returned to a parent or guardian. To help educate the community, the Police Department will continue outreach efforts, including safety classes and training opportunities for riders and parents.

We encourage everyone — both youth and adults — to ride responsibly, stay alert, and help keep our streets and sidewalks safe for all users this summer.

If you have any questions about this or other City topics, please email me at aarrington@normandyparkwa.gov. Have a great week!

“We encourage everyone — both youth and adults — to ride responsibly…“