Electric bikes, scooters, and motorcycles are facing new rules in Clark County. With the goal of enhancing public safety, the County Commission has approved an ordinance that regulates these electric vehicles on County-owned property. Commissioner Justin Jones spearheaded the initiative, responding to the plethora of safety issues that have arisen alongside the growing popularity of these methods of transport, according to the Clark County.
"Safety in our public spaces is non-negotiable," Commissioner Jones said, as reported by the Clark County's official news release. Concerned citizens and local law enforcement had voiced their worries about the burgeoning presence of these vehicles. The new ordinance aims to strike a balance by instituting speed limits and safety standards, while still permitting responsible use.
Among the key provisions, the ordinance defines several classes of electric bicycles and clarifies what constitutes an electric scooter, motorcycle, and all-terrain motorcycle. This move aids law enforcement in ensuring safety. Minors are now required to don helmets when riding e-bikes or electric scooters, and these devices must have a bell or horn and lights for nighttime use. It also puts a ban on reckless activities like stunts, and appoints financial accountability on parents for minors' violations, as per the Clark County.
In County parks, motorcycles and all-terrain motorcycles, will be kept outside unless given a pass, will no longer be allowed to roam free. Running counter to the ordinance, violators will be fined $150 for their first offense, with fines increasing up to $600 for further infractions. The ordinance also places an upper speed limit of 15 mph for e-bikes and scooters in these areas. Clark County's website details the full ordinance and offers an FAQ section, more details of which can be seen in the public notice period before the measure goes into effect on May 21, 2025.
The updated legal definitions now encompass all-terrain vehicles regardless of whether they are powered by electric or combustion motors/engines. As for e-bikes, they have been categorized into three classes based on the type of assistance provided and the maximum speed they can attain. Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only with a max speed of 20 mph, Class 2 includes throttle or pedal-assist up to the same speed, and Class 3 is pedal-assist with a max speed of 28 mph. These classifications exclude mopeds and motorcycles, as detailed by the Clark County. The guidelines for electric scooters cap them at 20 mph and less than 100 pounds, with handlebars and powered by an electric motor or rider propulsion, not including mobility aids.
