WILMETTE, IL — The Village Board of Trustees discussed an ordinance that would establish rules for e-bike use in Wilmette.
The proposed ordinance would regulate the speed and location at which e-bikes and other motorized mobility vehicles can operate.
Police enforcement of these rules will be focused on reckless and dangerous behavior, rather than prohibiting types of vehicles, Police Chief Michael Robinson said.
The proposed ordinance also clarifies the definition for motor-driven vehicles, including low-speed electric vehicles (Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes), low-speed electric scooters and toy vehicles. A mobility vehicle is considered to be any wheeled or tracked vehicle without a title or vehicle registration that is equipped with electric or gas motors.
Children under 16 would be prohibited from operating vehicles that can go over 10 miles per hour. At this time, Wilmette does not plan to require a driver’s license for anyone to operate an e-bike.
For penalties, the village is considering implementing fines that range from $50 to $750, depending on repeated reckless behavior. Parents who allow children under the age of 16 to operate an electric vehicle may also face a fine.
“These regulations seem common sense to me, and fairly lenient,” Village President Senta Plunkett said. “But I think when we talk about what things could be controversial with this, I do think people might want to discuss the age limit.”
During the discussion, many trustees expressed safety concerns when considering speed regulations and allowing e-bikes on sidewalks. In nearby communities, such as Winnetka, Skokie and Evanston, motorized vehicles are not allowed on sidewalks and age and license requirements vary.
Going forward, Wilmette officials plan to put out an online survey to get feedback from residents about their experiences related to e-bikes. Responses from the public will help inform the board’s decision on the ordinance.
When a decision is made at a future meeting, the village and police authorities plan to conduct education campaigns at local schools.
