9.2% DROP IN POLK COUNTY. THE CITY OF URBANDALE IS PROPOSING NEW RULES REGARDING BIKES AND SCOOTERS. IT WOULD BAN DEVICES WITH MOTORS OVER 750W ON SIDEWALKS, TRAILS AND GREEN SPACES. THE PROPOSAL ALSO ADDS REQUIREMENTS LIKE YIELDING TO PEDESTRIANS AND AUDIBLE PASSING SIGNALS. THE NEW RULES WOULD ALSO REQUIRE YOUR ELECTRONIC DEVICE TO BE MOUNTED. THE CITY COUNCIL I
Urbandale proposes new electric bike rules for sidewalks and trails
Updated: 8:20 PM CDT Jul 8, 2026
Urbandale is proposing new rules for electric bikes that would ban devices with motors over 750 watts on sidewalks, trails, and green spaces. The proposal also includes requirements for yielding to pedestrians, using audible passing signals, and ensuring electronic devices are mounted on the bicycle. The city council is expected to hold its first vote on the proposal at its next city council meeting, which is scheduled for July 21. Several communities in central Iowa are also addressing the rise in popularity of these smaller, personal vehicles. Ankeny and Newton already implemented new rules, while Norwalk and Waukee are working to adopt new policies to address them.
URBANDALE, Iowa —
Urbandale is proposing new rules for electric bikes that would ban devices with motors over 750 watts on sidewalks, trails, and green spaces. The proposal also includes requirements for yielding to pedestrians, using audible passing signals, and ensuring electronic devices are mounted on the bicycle.
The city council is expected to hold its first vote on the proposal at its next city council meeting, which is scheduled for July 21. Several communities in central Iowa are also addressing the rise in popularity of these smaller, personal vehicles. Ankeny and Newton already implemented new rules, while Norwalk and Waukee are working to adopt new policies to address them.