Phoenix Police Launch E-Bike and E-Scooter Education Initiative

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Phoenix citizens engage in safe riding practices on e-bikes and e-scooters as part of the city's educational campaign.

News Summary

In response to the growing use of e-bikes and e-scooters, the Phoenix Police Department has initiated a 45-day educational campaign. This program aims to inform riders of their legal responsibilities and promote safe riding practices amid rising community complaints. Local police plan to emphasize targeted enforcement following the educational phase to improve compliance with riding regulations.

Phoenix Police Enhance E-Bike and E-Scooter Education Amid Rising Popularity

Phoenix, Arizona—In response to the increasing use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters), the Phoenix Police Department is launching a new educational initiative to ensure riders understand their legal responsibilities and promote safe riding practices. The 45-day public education campaign commenced on June 5, 2025, and aims to strike a balance between education and enforcement as community complaints regarding nuisance behaviors involving e-bikes and e-scooters have risen.

Mountain View Precinct Commander Leif Myers noted that current enforcement measures result in very few citations being issued to e-bike and e-scooter riders. With plans to focus on targeted enforcement after the educational campaign, police officials hope to improve compliance with the regulations.

Understanding E-Bike and E-Scooter Regulations

E-bikes are categorized into three distinct classes:

Class 1: Pedal-assist only; assistance provided only when the rider is pedaling, with a top speed of 20 mph.
Class 2: Throttle-enabled; riders can operate without pedaling, also limited to a maximum speed of 20 mph.
Class 3: Enhanced Class 1; offers assistance only when pedaling and can reach speeds up to 28 mph.

According to city regulations, e-bike riders must be at least 16 years old, and riding on sidewalks is prohibited. E-scooter regulations mirror those of e-bikes, as operators are also required to be at least 16 years old and are forbidden from riding on sidewalks. Additionally, riders using e-scooters at night must have a white light or red reflector to enhance visibility and safety.

Motor-driven cycles, classified as motorcycles, must comply with stricter regulations that require operators to possess a driver’s license, as well as vehicle registration and insurance when using public roadways.

Community Concerns and Complaints

The initiative comes amid rising concerns from community members regarding e-bikes and e-scooters trespassing in parks and disrupting recreational spaces. Reports suggest that young e-bike riders have been causing disturbances at locations such as the Stone Creek Golf Course, according to facility management. The Phoenix City Council is actively seeking ways to collaborate with local school districts to bolster public education initiatives around the laws governing e-bikes and e-scooters.

While the law permits riders as young as 16 to operate e-scooters, there are concerns regarding road safety, particularly for younger riders. As part of this focus on safety, riders under 18 are required to wear helmets when using electric bicycles. However, current regulations vary from those in neighboring cities, resulting in confusion among riders regarding age requirements for e-bike operation.

Looking Ahead

The Phoenix Police Department has indicated that it will continue public education efforts and is currently not planning heavy enforcement or citation issuance. This proactive approach aims to educate the community about e-bike and e-scooter regulations while addressing safety concerns. By enhancing riders’ understanding of their responsibilities, city officials hope to cultivate a safer and more responsible riding culture as the popularity of these modes of transport continues to grow.