KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – The Kansas City Council passed new rules on electric bikes, scooters, and other electronic powered devices in the city.
Kansas City joins other municipalities in the metro, like Olathe and Independence, in passing new regulations. Councilmembers say it’s in an effort to keep people more safe on the streets and sidewalks.
The now-passed ordinance divides electric devices into three categories: e-bikes, micro-mobility devices such as electric scooters and unicycles, and electric motorcycles, also referred to as e-motos.
Under the proposal, riders must be 16 or older to operate a Class 3 e-bike — which can reach speeds up to 28 mph — or any device capable of going 20 mph or more. Riders under 18 would be required to wear a helmet. E-motos would require riders to be 16 or older and hold a driver’s license.
Speed limits are also being imposed: For e-scooters and e-bikes, 15 mph on sidewalks and 20 mph in bike lanes and on trails. E-motos would be prohibited from sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails entirely.
A first violation will result in a warning. A second violation is a citation with the opportunity to get it waived by taking an educational class. The third violation will result in a citation and fee.
The ordinance will take effect in 120 days. Before then, City Manager Mario Vasquez has been tasked with developing an educational campaign to get people informed on the changes.
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