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E-Bike, E-Scooter, and Micro-Mobility Device Rules
New Ordinance to Take Effect November 20, 2025
The City of Dublin has adopted a new ordinance governing the use of e-bikes, e-scooters, and other micro-mobility devices. Beginning November 20, 2025, riders will no longer be permitted to operate these devices on sidewalks, except when entering or leaving adjacent property.
The ordinance also clarifies where e-bikes, e-scooters, and other micro-mobility devices may be used in City parks and recreation areas:
- Ride only on paved, designated routes. These are the same paths or trails marked for bicycle use.
- Do not ride on unpaved trails, grass, or dirt areas unless a sign specifically allows it.
- Ride safely and courteously. Slow down around pedestrians and avoid reckless or unsafe behavior.
- Helmets are required for riders under 18 when operating or riding as a passenger in any City park.
Please note that the new ordinance does not cover electric motorcycles because they’re classified as off-highway vehicles and are prohibited on public roads under state law (more below).
What is an E-Bike, E-Scooter, or Other Micro-Mobility Device?
The term “micro-mobility device” refers to small, electric-powered vehicles designed for short-distance travel. These devices offer affordable and environmentally friendly ways to get around, but they must be operated safely and in accordance with local and state laws.
Below are the main types of devices covered under Dublin’s new ordinance.
- E-Bike (Electric Bicycle):
Defined byCalifornia Vehicle Code(CVC)§312.5.IncludesClass 1,Class 2, andClass 3models, which differ by how the motor assists and the maximum speedthey can travel. - E-Scooter (Motorized Scooter):
Defined byCVC §407.5.It has two wheels, handlebars, and a floorboard designed to stand on while riding. These are often seen as personal or shared-use scooters. - Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD):
Defined byCVC §313.Includes devices such as Segways and similar self-balancing vehicles. These may be operated on sidewalks only by individuals with mobility disabilities. - Electrically Motorized Board:
Defined byCVC §313.5.Includes electric skateboards and similar battery-powered devices.
All of these are considered micro-mobility devices under Chapter 6.73 of the Dublin Municipal Code, and the new rules apply to each.
Enforcement and Compliance Timeline
The new ordinance takes effect November 20, 2025. Dublin Police Services will begin micro-mobility device enforcement in phases to ensure riders have time to learn the new rules and adjust their habits.
Through December 2025 – Education and Warnings
During this initial period, officers will focus on education and safety outreach. Riders observed operating e-bikes or e-scooters on sidewalks or in restricted park areas may receive a verbal or written warning and information about the updated ordinance.
Beginning January 2026 – Citations and Continued Education
Starting in January, citations may be issued for repeated or serious violations. Dublin Police will continue public outreach and safety education efforts to promote responsible use of e-bikes and other micro-mobility devices.
The City’s goal is to encourage safe, courteous, and lawful riding behavior that protects pedestrians, park visitors, and other roadway users.
What State Law Says
Micro-Mobility Devices
The California Vehicle Code (CVC) establishes statewide rules for how bicycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, and other micro-mobility devices may operate. These laws promote consistency across cities and ensure safe sharing of roads and public spaces. The CVC also allows local governments to set additional rules for parks, trails, and sidewalks, which is what the City of Dublin has done through its new ordinance.
Key Statewide Rules
- Riders must follow the same traffic laws as bicycles whenoperatingon streets or in bike lanes.
- E-scooters and similar devices may not beoperatedon sidewalks, except when entering or leaving adjacent property.
- Helmets:
- Required for riders under 18 on e-bikes and e-scooters.
- Required for all riders on Class 3 e-bikes and electric skateboards.
- Strongly recommended for everyone.
- Devices must be operated safely and responsibly, without endangering others.
Electric Motorcycles
Electric motorcycles may resemble e-bikes, but they’re not the same, and they’re not street-legal. High-powered models like Surron or Talaria are classified under state law as off-highway vehicles, which means they cannot be operated on public streets, sidewalks, parks, or trails anywhere in California, including Dublin.
These vehicles may only be used on private property with permission or at designated off-road areas. Parents and riders are urged to understand the difference between e-bikes and e-motorcycles to help keep everyone safe.
The new ordinance does not cover electric motorcycles because they are already illegal to operate on public roads under state law.
For more information, visit the California Legislative Information website to view the full text of the California Vehicle Code.
| Vehicle | Description | License | Helmet | Where |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E-Scooter | A two-wheeled vehicle with a motor, handlebars, and a standing floorboard; may include a seat that allows for standing. | Driver's license or instruction permit | Helmet if under 18 years old. | Bike lanes or on road with 25 MPH or less speed limit; sidewalk riding prohibited. |
| Class 1 &2 E-Bike | An electric bicycle with pedal or throttle assist, providing motor support up to 20 MPH. | None | Helmet if under 18 years old. | Anywhere traditional bikes may ride; sidewalk riding prohibited. |
| Class 3 E-Bike | A pedal-assisted electric bicycle with a speedometer, providing motor assistance only while pedaling, up to 28 MPH. | Driver's license or instruction permit. | Helmet required for all. | Anywhere traditional bikes may ride; sidewalk riding prohibited. |
| Motorized Bicycle/Moped | Two or three wheels with fully operative pedals, or no pedals if electric motor; max speed of 30 MPH. | Driver's license with M-1 or M-2 endorsement. | DOT- compliant helmet for all. | Public or private roads. |
| Electric Motorcycle | A high-powered and quiet electric motorcycle. | None | DOT- compliant helmet for all. | On private property or designated off road areas; prohibited on any public road, sidewalk, or park. |
| Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD) | Devices such as Segways and similar self-balancing vehicles. | None | Strong recommended | Anywhere traditional bikes may ride; individuals with mobility disabilities may use EPAMDs on sidewalks. |
| Electric Motorized Board | Electric skateboards, one-wheel devices, and similar battery-powered devices. | None | Helmet required for all. | Anywhere traditional bikes may ride; sidewalk riding prohibited. |
Online Training and Safety Resources
CHP Safety Training Course - The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has created a free online electric bicycle safety course to help protect commuters and recreational riders. The City of Dublin strongly encourages all e-bike users to complete this course before utilizing their vehicle.
California E-Bike Incentive Project Training Course – The California E-Bike Incentive Project is a partnership between California Air Resources Board and Pedal Ahead, a non-profit organization. Their video-based training covers e-bike equipment as well as safe riding.
