Danville Town Council Leads Public Study Session on E-Bike Safety

E-bikes have gained popularity in recent years as an environmentally friendly and efficient form of “micromobility” for adults, when cars are not efficient or readily available for short commutes. However, many Danville-area parents have purchased bikes for children who are now riding throughout Danville without a full understanding of the laws, risks, or responsibilities that come with motorized travel. Unsafe riding behavior, lack of helmets, and improper use in pedestrian areas have led to mounting safety concerns among residents.

Under California Vehicle Code, e-bikes are defined as bicycles equipped with a motor of less than 750 watts. They fall into three classes:

• Class 1: E-bikes that assist only while the rider is pedaling, and that cease to assist once the bike reaches 20 mph.
• Class 2: E-bikes that have a throttle and can propel the bike without pedaling, also with a maximum speed of 20 mph.
• Class 3: E-bikes that assist while the rider is pedaling, up to 28 mph, and are required to have a speedometer. Riders must be at least 16 years old.

Anecdotal reports from residents and police officers note that legal use of e-bikes in these classes is not the main issue, but the more dangerous situation is minors riding motorized bikes capable of reaching 30 mph without the state-required license or training. Parents may be providing what are classified by the state as motorcycles for kids, assuming they are regular e-bikes. Focusing on parental education regarding existing laws is a key focus for the Town. Following robust discussion and input from the public and Town staff, the Council identified several key actions to move forward with:

• Community Outreach and Education: Expand awareness campaigns to educate both parents and children about safe and legal e-bike and motorized bike use. Outreach will target local PTAs, HOAs, and other community groups. Additionally, staff will continue to work with San Ramon Valley Unified School District administrators to address underage students bringing e-bikes and motorized bikes to campus.
• Increased Enforcement: The Danville Police Department will continue enforcement efforts, including issuing fines and impounding e-bikes and motor bikes when children are caught riding illegally. This can include riding recklessly in parks or riding over the speed limit, among other age-related violations.
• State Advocacy: The Town will advocate for legislation granting local municipalities greater authority to regulate e-bike usage within their jurisdictions, rather than relying solely on state law.
• Local Ordinances: Council directed staff to present the issues and regulatory hurdles for commission review, for potential ordinance modifications. During their July 9 meeting, the Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission will review the ordinance governing bike, e-bike, and scooter use in parks to determine if potential amendments are warranted. Similarly, the Bicycle Advisory Commission will evaluate if further amendments are warranted to the current ordinance prohibiting e-bikes on sidewalks in commercial zones during their meeting July 23. Community members are encouraged to attend these meetings and share their perspectives.

The Town of Danville remains committed to ensuring the safety of all residents while supporting sustainable modes of transportation. Residents who want to learn more about the various types of e-bikes and their associated California Vehicle Code laws can visit danville.ca.gov/ebikes and follow the Town’s social media channels @DanvilleCAgov for updates. As the Town explores potential local and state legislative efforts, residents can subscribe for updates and lend their voice to these initiatives at danvilletowntalks.org/stand — a new way for the Danville community to show support and stay informed on key policy issues affecting the town.