Ordinance Amending – Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes)

Posted on January 6, 2026

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-01

An Ordinance to regulate the use of Electric Bicycles (e‑bikes) within the City of Iron River, Michigan.

Section 1. Purpose

The purpose of this ordinance is to promote public safety, ensure compatible use of City multi‑use paths, sidewalks, streets, and trails, and to regulate e‑bike operation consistent with the State of Michigan laws and City Ordinances.

Section 2. Definitions

For the purposes of this ordinance:

  1. Electric Bicycle (e‑bike): A vehicle with pedals and an electric motor of not more than 750 watts that assists the rider in propelling the bicycle.
  2. Class 1 e‑bike: An e‑bike where the electric motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and stops assisting when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour.
  3. Class 2 e‑bike: An e‑bike which may be powered by a throttle, with motor propulsion whether or not the rider is pedaling, but the motor         ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 mph.
  4. Class 3 e‑bike: An e‑bike where the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and stops assisting when the bicycle reaches        28 miles per hour.
  5. Multi‑Use Path: Any designated path intended for non‑motorized use, including pedestrians, runners, bicyclists, etc., whether paved or          unpaved, but excluding pathways where posted otherwise.
  6. Sidewalk: A paved area intended for pedestrian use adjacent to a road or street.
  7. Bike Lane: A portion of a street designated for bicyclists by pavement markings or signage.

Section 3. Permitted Use by Location and E‑Bike Class

  1. Multi‑Use Paths: All classes of e‑bikes may be operated, in compliance with this ordinance, city traffic laws, and state law.
  2. Sidewalks: e‑bikes not permitted [or permitted only if dismounted at walking speed] except where specifically allowed by          signage.
  3. Bike lanes and Roadways: All classes of e‑bikes may be operated, in           compliance with this ordinance, city traffic laws, and state law.
  4. Trails/tracks managed by the City Parks & Recreation: Permitted classes subject to additional trail‑specific rules or signage.

Section 4. Speed Limits

  1. E‑bike operation on multi‑use paths shall not exceed 15 mph.
  2. City may post lower speed limits via signage on particular paths or           trails.

Section 5. Equipment and Safety Requirements

  1. E‑bikes must have a visible manufacturer’s label or plate indicating class, motor wattage, and maximum motor‑assisted speed.
  2. During nighttime or low visibility conditions, e‑bikes must be equipped with a white front headlight, red rear light or reflector, and side reflectors        or reflective materials on pedal/rider.
  3. Helmet use is required for riders under age 18; recommended for all riders.
  4. Riders must obey hand signals when turning or stopping.
  5. Riders must yield right of way to pedestrians, slow down when passing, and announce presence (e.g. “Passing on the left”) on multi‑use      paths.

Section 6. Behavior and Conduct

          No reckless operation. Riding in a manner that endangers other users      is prohibited.

Section 7. Enforcement and Penalties

  1. Violations of this ordinance shall be punishable by a fine of not less than $20.00 and not more than $100.00, or as a civil infraction.
  2. First‐offense warning may be issued at discretion of enforcement agency (police, parks, etc.).
  3. The City shall install signage in appropriate locations indicating class restrictions and path rules.

Section 8. State Law Supremacy

This ordinance is adopted subject to all applicable state laws. Any provisions in conflict with state statutes shall be invalid to the extent of the conflict; where state law provides greater restriction, those restrictions shall apply.

Section 9. Effective Date

This ordinance shall take effect ______ days after its passage and publication as required by law.

 

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