E-BIKES
E-BIKE ORDINANCE
Putting the brakes on dangerous e-bike riding
Reckless riders will face harsher penalties under new City ordinance
Over the past year, the City of Happy Valley has received a growing number of complaints about the unsafe use of e-bikes and micro-mobility devices in community parks and on City roads. In response, the Happy Valley City Council recently voted unanimously to approve an emergency ordinance that takes a zero-tolerance policy approach to riders acting recklessly.
“We understand that e-bikes and micro mobility devices are a popular option for residents to get around,” said Steve Campbell, Director of Public Safety for the City of Happy Valley. “However, we’ve seen an increase in dangerous behavior, especially among younger riders, and have to put a stop to it before someone is seriously injured.”
On April 9th, the City hosted an open forum on e-bike safety which was attended by more than 100 residents. Feedback received during that meeting helped shape the emergency ordinance, which prohibits:
- Reckless or careless riding
- Riding while impaired
- Performing stunts or tricks in public areas
- Swerving through traffic
- Not using designated bike lanes when available
- Passing pedestrians without warning
- Any behavior that puts others at risk
The ordinance takes effect immediately, riders who disregard the rules of the road or elude police will now receive a citation from law enforcement. Penalties will be determined by the court and could include suspension of riding privileges or forfeiture of the e-device.
In the coming months the City will also begin rolling out e-bike safety education classes to help inform riders of safe riding practices.
“We encourage parents to speak with their children about how to operate these devices properly,” said Campbell. “It’s on all of us to ensure our community remains safe for pedestrians, riders and drivers alike.”
Residents can read the ordinance here. To report instances of unsafe riding behavior, use the City’s ‘report a concern’ feature or call the Clackamas County non-emergency line at 503-655-8211.
COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE
On April 9th, the Traffic & Public Safety Committee held a thoughtful and productive meeting focused on e-bike safety in our community. The conversation centered on rider behavior, accountability, and how we can create safer streets and shared spaces for everyone—riders, pedestrians, and drivers alike.
This meeting brought together City officials, public safety staff, and residents to discuss the rapid rise of e-bike and micromobility use and related safety concerns in our community. We heard valuable feedback, shared concerns, and discussed potential approaches as we begin drafting an ordinance that reflects the needs and priorities of our community. This is an important step toward building a more community-focused and safety-conscious approach to e-bike use.
Thank you to everyone who attended, spoke up, and contributed to this conversation.
The community broadly supported a combination of solutions, including new local regulations focused on unsafe riding behavior, expanded education and safety programs especially for youth and parents and potential restrictions on where devices can be used, such as trails and boardwalks. Overall, the discussion highlighted the need for a balanced, community-driven approach that improves safety while still allowing for responsible use.
Reckless riding that endangers the public should be reported by calling 911, and the community is encouraged to report these incidents.
For other concerns, residents can contact non-emergency services at 503-655-8211, or submit a report through the City’s Citizen Concern form.
CITY OF HAPPY VALLEY TIMELINE
E-BIKES IN THE NEWS
WHAT IS AN E-BIKE?
A recent legislative change has updated age requirements for e-bike use; however, the new law will not take effect until January 2027. At this time, the city continues to follow the current minimum age requirement of 16.
E-BIKE CLASSIFICATIONS
E-BIKE EDUCATION OPTIONS
COMMUTE OPTIONS
- Free online e-bike course promoting e-bike basics, road rules, safe riding techniques, & battery safety & maintenance.
- We have copies of their printable version of this course for you to take a look!
E-BIKE SMART
- Free online course created by PeopleForBikes, the League of American Bicyclists, and Bicycle Colorado
- Each module features short educational videos with a quiz that follows.
THE STREET TRUST
- Offers courses like E-Bikes 101 & E-Bike Law.
- In person for 1 hour, typically given during lunch hours.
CLACKAMAS COUNTY
- Applying for a regional Travel Options grant for the 26-27 fiscal year.
- Their scope of work includes plans for e-bike safety courses, starts development in July 2026.