HomeMy WebLinkAbout7.1 Intro Ordinance Amending Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140 (Parks and Recreation Areas and Facilities) and Adding Chapter 6.73 (Micro-Mobility Devices) of the Dublin Municipal CodeSTAFF REPORT
CITY COUNCIL
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Agenda Item 7.1
DATE: October 7, 2025
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Colleen Tribby, City Manager
SUBJECT: Introduction of an Ordinance Amending Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140
Parks and Recreation Areas and Facilities) and Adding Chapter 6.73
Micro-Mobility Devices) of the Dublin Municipal Code
Prepared by: Jordan Foss, Senior Management Analyst and Chief Victor
Fox, Dublin Police Services
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The City Council will consider introducing an Ordinance amending the Dublin Municipal Code
regarding the use of Electric Bicycles, Electric Scooters, Electric Personal Assistive Mobility
Devices, and Electric Motorized Boards operating within the City and making clarifications to
enhance public safety.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Waive the reading and introduce an Ordinance Amending Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140
Parks and Recreation Areas and Facilities) and Adding Chapter 6.73 (Micro-Mobility Devices)
to the Dublin Municipal Code.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None.
DESCRIPTION:
Background
At the September 3, 2024 meeting, the City Council requested that Staff explore an electric
bicycle (e-bike) and electric scooter (e-scooter) education program. In response, Staff provided
a report and presentation at the May 6, 2025 City Council Meeting (Attachment 3). The
presentation covered current state laws and efforts by Dublin Police Services to conduct
education and enforcement in the community related to the use of e-bikes and e-scooters. The
City Council directed Staff to create an ordinance to better regulate the use of e-bikes, e-
scooters, and other personal electric vehicles within the City.
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Analysis
Due to the increasing popularity and usage of Personal Electric Vehicles (PEVs) in the Dublin
community, there is a need to codify definitions and regulations on their use. This will provide
clear guidance for the community on how and where to operate these micro-mobility devices
safely.
Staff is proposing to amend Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140 (Parks and Recreation Areas
and Facilities) and to add chapter 6.73 (Micro-Mobility Devices) to the Dublin Municipal Code
DMC) related to e-bikes, e-scooters, electric personal assistive mobility devices, and electric
motorized boards (e-skateboards). The proposed amendments include updated definitions for
Bicycles” and “Micro-mobility device” (Section 5.100.020) and adding “micro-mobility device”
to the prohibited acts in parks (Section 5.100.140).
The proposed addition of Chapter 6.73 consolidates applicable provisions of the California
Vehicle Code for use of micro-mobility devices with locally tailored regulations to ensure safe
use within the City of Dublin and on City sidewalks.
Key components of the proposed Ordinance include:
Definitions and Classifications
o The designations provided in the ordinance align with state law definitions for e-
bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, electric personal assistive mobility devices, and
micro-mobility devices. The Ordinance also distinguishes between which vehicles
are street-legal, and which are non-street-legal for use, according to the
California Vehicle Code.
Use in Public Spaces
o Provisions in the Ordinance establish rules prohibiting operation of certain
vehicles on sidewalks and prohibiting e-bike, e-scooter, e-skateboard, electric
personal assistive mobility device, and micro-mobility device usage in City parks
unless used in a safe manner on designated pathways.
Enforcement and Penalties
o The Ordinance provides law enforcement with the authority to issue citations,
warnings, or impound PEVs where public safety is at risk. Violations are treated
as infractions pursuant to Government Code Section 36900(b) or as
administrative infractions pursuant to the Dublin Municipal Code Section
1.04.030.
Liability and Parental Responsibility
o The Ordinance clarifies that the City is not liable for injuries or damages arising
from PEV use and establishes parental/guardian responsibility for minors.
The amendments to Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140 (Parks and Recreation Areas and
Facilities) along with the addition of Chapter 6.73 (Micro-Mobility Devices) are intended to
improve public safety, provide consistency with state regulations, and proactively address the
growing use of personal electric vehicles in the community. Attachment 1 is the draft
Ordinance amending the Parks and Recreation Areas and Facilities and adding Micro-Mobility
Devices regulations. A redline version of the proposed changes to Section 5.100.020 and
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5.100.140 is included as Attachment 2 where underlined text is proposed to be added and text
with a strikethrough is proposed to be deleted.
Next Steps
If the proposed Ordinance is introduced and subsequently adopted, Dublin Police Services will
incorporate the requirements into their operating procedures, implement administrative
citations for infractions to this Ordinance, and will conduct outreach to educate residents of the
changes. Updated information will also be published on Dublin Police Services e -bike and e-
scooter webpage.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:
Strategy 2: Public Safety
Objective B: Continue to invest in public safety technology and programs that advance
proactive, community policing and protect citizens and law enforcement.
NOTICING REQUIREMENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH:
The City Council Agenda was posted.
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Ordinance Amending Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140 (Parks and Recreation Areas and
Facilities) of and Adding Chapter 6.73 (Micro-Mobility Devices) to the Dublin Municipal
Code
2) Redline Amendments to Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140
3) City Council Staff Report dated May 6, 2025
571
ORDINANCE NO. XX–25
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
AMENDING SECTIONS 5.100.020 AND 5.100.140 (PARKS AND
RECREATION AREAS AND FACILITIES) OF AND ADDING CHAPTER
6.73 (MICRO-MOBILITY) TO THE DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS, the California Vehicle Code (CVC), as a general matter and as a
means of establishing statewide uniformity, prevents the City from regulating the
matters that the CVC covers, such as the operation of vehicles on public streets, unless
otherwise expressly provided in the CVC.
WHEREAS, the CVC also prevents the City from enforcing ordinances that
impose fines, penalties, assessments, and fees for violations of “matters covered by
the” CVC.
WHEREAS, the CVC authorizes local regulations relating to the operation of
micro-mobility devices, including e-bikes and e-scooters, in certain areas such as parks
and sidewalks, and further authorizes local jurisdictions to establish reasonable rules
and regulations governing the operation of such devices within City boundaries.
NOW, THEREFORE, The Dublin City Council does ordain as follows:
Section 1. Amending Chapter 5.100 (Parks and Recreation Areas and
Facilities) to Include Micro-Mobility Devices in Prohibitions.
a. Section 5.100.020 of the Dublin Municipal Code is amended to read as
follows:
5.100.020 Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter the following terms, phrases, words,
abbreviations and their derivations shall have the meaning given herein:
Bicycle” has the meaning ascribed to it in California Vehicle Code
section 231, which, it is noted for completeness, includes an “electric
bicycle” as that term is defined in California Vehicle Code section 312.5.
City” means the city of Dublin.
Director” means the City Manager or the City Manager’s
authorized representative.
Micro-mobility device” has the meaning ascribed to it in section
6.73.010 of this code.
Attachment 1
572
Park” means and includes all grounds, buildings, improvements
and areas dedicated for use by the public for park, recreation or open
space purposes, and any part, portion or area thereof, whether developed
or undeveloped or over which the city has acquired right of use for such
purposes.
Person” means any person, firm, partnership, association,
corporation, company, or organization of any kind.
Vehicle” means any wheeled conveyance, whether motor
powered, animal-drawn, or self-propelled. The term shall include any
trailer in tow of any size, kind or description. Exception is made for baby
carriages, strollers, wheelchairs and vehicles in the service of the city of
Dublin.
b. Section 5.100.140 of the Dublin Municipal Code is amended to read as
follows:
5.100.140 Operation of bicycles, vehicles, skates, skateboards,
nonmotorized scooters and autos—Prohibited acts.
No person while in any park shall:
A. Ride a bicycle, micro-mobility device (as defined in section
6.73.010), or other vehicle except on officially designated routes. Bicycles ,
micro-mobility devices, and other vehicles shall not be permitted on
unpaved trails or roads, or upon any other unpaved surfaces unless
specifically permitted by posted sign. Notwithstanding the above, a
bicyclist shall be permitted to wheel or push a bicycle by hand over any
grassy area, bridge, building deck or paved area reserved for pedestrian
use;
B. Ride or operate a bicycle, micro-mobility device, or vehicle
at any time or at any place within city parks or recreational areas in a
negligent, unsafe or reckless manner or in a way that endangers the life,
limb or property of any person or in violation of the provisions of California
Vehicle Code Section 21201, or at excessive speeds, especially when
passing other trail users, or in areas with poor or limited visibility;
C. If under eighteen (18) years of age, operate a bicycle, a
nonmotorized scooter, a skateboard, roller or in -line skates, or ride on a
bicycle, a nonmotorized scooter, or a skateboard as a passenger, upon
any park property unless wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle
helmet. This requirement also applies to a person who rides upon a
bicycle while in a restraining seat that is attached to the bicycle or in a
trailer towed by the bicycle;
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D. Leave a bicycle in a place other than a bicycle rack when
such is provided and there is a space available;
E. Ride, drive or park any automobile, truck, motorcycle, motor
scooter or any other motor-powered, whether gas, electric, or other energy
source, vehicle, other than a micro-mobility device, except upon the roads,
driveways and parking lots provided and designated for such use;
F. Skate over any grassy area, bridge, building deck or paved
area reserved for pedestrian use;
G. Ride or propel skates, a skateboard or any other vehicle
while holding or using any kite (also known as kiteskating);
H. Ride or propel a skateboard except on areas designated by
the Council by ordinance or resolution and properly noticed, and
performed in a manner as to provide for reasonable protection to both
individuals and property; or
I. Park any vehicle in a park or city recreational area or facility
unless actually visiting or engaged in a recreational activity at the park,
recreational area or facility in question unless authorized by the Director.
Section 2. Adding Chapter 6.73 to the Dublin Municipal Code. Chapter
6.73 is hereby added to the Dublin Municipal Code to read as follows:
Chapter 6.73
MICRO-MOBILITY DEVICES.
6.73.010 Definitions
For purposes of this Chapter, the following words and phrases shall
have the meanings specified in this section:
E-bike” or “Electric bicycle” has the meaning ascribed to it in CVC
section 312.5.
E-Scooter” or “Motorized scooter” has the meaning ascribed to a
motorized scooter in CVC section 407.5.
Electric personal assistive mobility device” (or “EPAMD”) has the
meaning ascribed to it in CVC section 313.
Electrically motorized board” has the meaning ascribed to it in
CVC section 313.5.
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Micro-mobility device” means electric bicycles, motorized scooters,
electric personal assistive mobility devices, and electrically motorized
boards.
6.73.020 Use of Micro-Mobility Devices Prohibited on Sidewalks.
Except as may be necessary to enter or leave adjacent property, no
person shall ride, drive, or operate a micro-mobility device on a pedestrian
sidewalk, unless the sidewalk is designated as a shared use path
pursuant to CVC section 21235. (Reference: CVC §§ 213 and 21100 [e-
bikes], 21282 [EPAMDs], 21967 [electrically motorized boards].)
Notwithstanding the foregoing, a person may ride, drive, or operate an
EPAMD on a pedestrian sidewalk, if, by reason of physical disability, s/he
is otherwise unable to move about on foot. Although not regulated by this
Code, it is noted for completeness that CVC section 21235(g) prohibits the
operators of e-scooters and motorized scooters from operating them on
sidewalks, except as necessary to enter or leave adjacent property.
Section 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be enforced
30 days following its final adoption.
Section 4. Posting. The City Clerk of the City of Dublin shall cause this
Ordinance to be posted in at least three public places in the City of Dublin in
accordance with Section 36933 of the Government Code of the State of California.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this __th day of _______ 2025, by the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
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Attachment 2
5.100.020 Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter the following terms, phrases, words,
abbreviations and their derivations shall have the meaning given herein:
Bicycle” has the meaning ascribed to it in California Vehicle Code
section 231, which, it is noted for completeness, includes an “electric
bicycle” as that term is defined in California Vehicle Code section 312.5.
City” means the city of Dublin.
Director” means the City Manager or his the City Manager’s
authorized representative.
Micro-mobility device” has the meaning ascribed to it in section
6.73.010 of this code.
Park” means and includes all grounds, buildings, improvements
and areas dedicated for use by the public for park, recreation or open
space purposes, and any part, portion or area thereof, whether developed
or undeveloped or over which the city has acquired right of use for such
purposes.
Person” means any person, firm, partnership, association,
corporation, company, or organization of any kind.
Vehicle” means any wheeled conveyance, whether motor
powered, animal-drawn, or self-propelled. The term shall include any
trailer in tow of any size, kind or description. Exception is made for baby
carriages, strollers, wheelchairs and vehicles in the service of the city of
Dublin.
a. Section 5.100.140 of the Dublin Municipal Code is
amended to read as follows:
5.100.140 Operation of bicycles, vehicles, skates, skateboards,
nonmotorized scooters and autos—Prohibited acts.
No person while in any park shall:
A. Ride a bicycle, micro-mobility device (as defined in section
6.73.010), or other vehicle except on officially designated routes. Bicycles ,
micro-mobility devices, and other vehicles shall not be permitted on
unpaved trails or roads, or upon any other unpaved surfaces unless
specifically permitted by posted sign. Notwithstanding the above, a
bicyclist shall be permitted to wheel or push a bicycle by hand over any
grassy area, bridge, building deck or paved area reserved for pedestrian
use;
576
B. Ride or operate a bicycle, micro-mobility device, or vehicle
at any time or at any place within city parks or recreational areas in a
negligent, unsafe or reckless manner or in a way that endangers the life,
limb or property of any person or in violation of the provisions of California
Vehicle Code Section 21201, or at excessive speeds, especially when
passing other trail users, or in areas with poor or limited visibility;
C. If under eighteen (18) years of age, operate a bicycle, a
nonmotorized scooter, a skateboard, roller or in -line skates, or ride on a
bicycle, a nonmotorized scooter, or a skateboard as a passenger, upon
any park property unless wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle
helmet. This requirement also applies to a person who rides upon a
bicycle while in a restraining seat that is attached to the bicycle or in a
trailer towed by the bicycle;
D. Leave a bicycle in a place other than a bicycle rack when
such is provided and there is a space available;
E. Ride, drive or park any automobile, truck, motorcycle, motor
scooter or any other motor-powered, whether gas, electric, or other energy
source, vehicle, other than a micro-mobility device, except upon the roads,
driveways and parking lots provided and designated for such use;
F. Skate over any grassy area, bridge, building deck or pa ved
area reserved for pedestrian use;
G. Ride or propel skates, a skateboard or any other vehicle
while holding or using any kite (also known as kiteskating);
H. Ride or propel a skateboard except on areas designated by
the Council by ordinance or resolution and properly noticed, and
performed in a manner as to provide for reasonable protection to both
individuals and property; or
I. Park any vehicle in a park or city recreational area or facility
unless actually visiting or engaged in a recreational activity at the park,
recreational area or facility in question unless authorized by the Director.
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STAFF REPORT
CITY COUNCIL
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Agenda Item 8.2
DATE: May 6, 2025
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM:Colleen Tribby, City Manager
SUBJECT:Report on Electric Bicycle and Electric Scooter Education and
Enforcement
Prepared by: Victor Fox, Chief of Police and Jordan Foss, Management
Analyst II
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The City Council will receive a report on current laws and efforts by Dublin Police Services to
conduct education and enforcement in the community related to the use of electric bicycles
and electric scooters. The report includes recommended action items designed to enhance
outreach and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the report and provide direction on the creation of a bicycle ordinance and
administrative citation program, and enhanced education and enforcement efforts.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None.
DESCRIPTION:
Background
At the September 3, 2024 meeting, the City Council asked that Staff explore an electric bicycle
e-bike) and electric scooter (e-scooter) education program. This request came on the heels of
several incidents involving such vehicles, particularly related to their operation by young
residents travelling to and from school. Since that time, Staff has collected data on incidents
involving e-bikes and e-scooters, evaluated current outreach and educational programs
offered, collaborated with the Dublin Unified School District, and conducted research on
neighboring cities. With this report, Staff is recommending enhancements to Dublin’s policies
and procedures that will help reduce incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters, as well as
traditional bicycles.
Attachment 3
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Definitions
Electric bicycles and electric scooters, commonly referred to as e-bikes and e-scooters, have
become a popular and cost-effective mode of transportation. The following is a brief overview
of the different classifications of e-bikes and e-scooters seen in the City of Dublin.
E-Bikes
An electric bike, or e-bike, is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor to assist the rider when
they are pedaling. The motor receives its power from a rechargeable battery mounted on the
bike. California Vehicle Code (CVC) 312.5 and 231 define e-bikes as bicycles. Additionally,
CVC 21200a establishes that anyone riding a bicycle has the same rights and responsibilities
as a driver of a motor vehicle, meaning that bicyclists are required to obey traffic laws. These
include traveling with the flow of traffic, obeying traffic signs and traffic control devices, and
traveling in bicycle lanes if available.
E-bikes are generally classified into three classes based on their motor assistance and
maximum speed. Class 1 and 3 are pedal-assist only, while Class 2 has both pedal- and
throttle-assist options. The maximum assisted speed is 20 miles per hour (mph) for Class 1
and 2, and 28 mph for Class 3, as shown in Table 1.
Table 1. E-Bikes Classification
Class 1 Class 2 Class 3
Pedal Assist
Throttle
Max Speed 20 mph 20 mph 28 mph
E-Scooters
CVC 407.5(a) defines an electric scooter, or e-scooter, as a two-wheeled device that has
handlebars, has either a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding or a seat
and footrests in place of the floorboard, and is powered by an electric motor. The motor
receives its power from a rechargeable battery mounted on the scooter. CVC 21235 mandates
that all scooter riders in California must have a valid driver’s license and prohibits the operation
of an e-scooter on a sidewalk, except to enter or leave adjacent property. Additionally,
pursuant to CVC 22411, no person shall operate a motorized scooter at a speed in excess of
15 mph.
Table 2 outlines the description, safety requirements, and local and state laws applicable to e-
bikes and e-scooters.
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Table 2. E-Bike and E-Scooter Requirements
Vehicle Description License
Requirement
Helmet
Requirement
Allowable
Locations Other
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.
Bicycle
helmet if
under 18
years old.
Bike lanes or
on a road with
25 mph or
less speed
limit; sidewalk
riding
prohibited.
15 mph max
speed limit;
follow rules that
apply to motor
vehicles.
Class 1 and
2
E-Bike
An electric bicycle
with pedal or throttle
assist, providing motor
support up to 20 mph.
None.Bicycle
helmet if
under 18
years old.
Anywhere
traditional
bikes may
ride.
No minimum age
requirement;
follow rules that
apply to motor
vehicles.
Class 3
E-Bike
A pedal-assisted
electric bicycle with a
speedometer,
providing motor
assistance only while
pedaling, up to 28
mph.
None.Bicycle
helmet for all.
Anywhere
traditional
bikes may
ride.
16 years and
older to ride;
follow rules that
apply to motor
vehicles.
Current Education and Enforcement Efforts
The Dublin Police Services (DPS) Patrol Division, Traffic Unit, School Resource Officers, and
the Crime Prevention Unit have collectively participated in community education efforts related
to e-bikes and e-scooters. The emphasis has been on education to raise awareness among
riders regarding current laws. Specifically, DPS has made the following efforts to enforce laws
and to provide public education.
DPS and City staff created social media posts on e-bike and e-scooter safety and
produced an educational video that was distributed online.
DPS worked with the Dublin Unified School District (DUSD) to ban the use of e-scooters
at all elementary and middle school campuses. This was in response to several
collisions involving e-scooters, as well as laws prohibiting their use for riders without a
driver’s license or permit.
DPS published an e-bike informational flyer.
DPS continued the Bicycle Rodeo and Safety program to all Dublin elementary schools
during the summer months for students in attendance. This program supports safe
bicycle riding and builds upon the students’ riding ability in a safe and controlled
environment.
School Resource Officers worked with the schools to provide guidance and education to
staff and students.
DPS issued 24 citations citywide in 2024, compared to none in 2023, and none thus far
in 2025. The increase in 2024 was directly related to a targeted enforcement campaign
in response to collisions. The citations DPS currently issues are for violations of the
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California Vehicle Code, which are handled through the court system like other moving
vehicle infractions.
DPS will host a Community Safety Fair at Emerald Glen Park on May 17, 2025. Staff
will be present to provide education on electric transportation laws and proper fitting of
safety helmets.
Collision Data
Since January 1, 2023, DPS has taken a total of 56 reports for collisions involving traditional
bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters (Figure 1 below). There were just over 20 collisions in each
of the last two full calendar years, with 11 incidents reported in 2025 to date. Ninety-three
percent of these incidents involved a motor vehicle (i.e., bike versus car), and injuries
occurred. This data does not reflect the true number of collisions, as some go unreported.
Figure 1. Bicycle and E-bike/E-scooter Collisions
Surrounding Cities Efforts
To help inform Dublin’s response to e-bike and e-scooter concerns, Staff conducted research
on the policies and procedures in place in the neighboring agencies of Pleasanton, San
Ramon, and Danville. The research concluded that, while safety concerns like Dublin’s exist in
other cities, there are inconsistencies in how each agency regulates e-bikes and e-scooters.
Table 3 below illustrates the findings.
15
8
4
5
7
2
3
7
4
2023
23)
2024
22)
2025 (YTD)
11)
Number
of
Collisions
Bicycles E-Bikes E-Scooters
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Table 3. Comparison of Municipal Safety Measures for E-Bikes and E-Scooters
Municipality Ordinance
Information
Citation
Information Website Safety Program
Danville Ordinance that
bans e-bikes
and e-scooters
from sidewalks
in business
district.
Occasionally cite,
but no exact
citation data
available.
Dedicated webpage
to e-bikes and e-
scooters. Definitions
and safety information
included.
Bicycle rodeo in
collaboration with San
Ramon Valley Unified
School District
SRVUSD), San
Ramon Valley Fire
Protection District
SRVFPD), and City of
San Ramon.
Pleasanton Ordinance that
defines
prohibited areas
for operation of
bicycles and e-
bikes.
Occasionally cite,
but no exact
citation data
available.
No information on
website.
None.
San Ramon No ordinance. No citations for
violations.
No information on
website.
Bicycle rodeo in
collaboration with
SRVUSD, SRVFPD,
and Town of Danville.
Dublin No ordinance.Targeted
enforcement of
the CA Vehicle
Code.
Dedicated webpage
on Bike Education
and Safety.
Bicycle Rodeo and
Safety Program offered
to all DUSD elementary
schools.
Findings and Recommendations Next Steps
The City’s social media outreach, inclusion of e-bike/e-scooter safety in the upcoming
Community Safety Fair, and collaboration with DUSD are positive steps towards addressing
concerns with electric conveyance technology. While there have been 11 incidents in this
calendar year to date, Staff is hopeful that the actions already taken will be positively impactful
through 2025, particularly as the DUSD e-scooter ban was put in place after the current school
year began.
However, due to the increasing popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters in the Dublin community,
there is a pressing need to enhance compliance with the laws and regulations regarding their
use. Staff recommends the following next steps as part of a coordinated strategy to enhance
education, ensure compliance, and support responsible integration of e-bikes and e-scooters
in the community.
1. Codification of Bicycle Laws into the Dublin Municipal Code (DMC)
Currently, the DMC only contains Chapter 6.72, which identifies the locations of bicycle lanes
but does not include language pertaining to e-bikes or e-scooters. Developing a bicycle
ordinance would help establish clear expectations for the use of bicycles, e-bikes, and e-
scooters within the community. It would also support enforcement and improve public safety.
The proposed bicycle ordinance would be based on best practices and minimally include the
following:
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Definitions to clearly define terms and classification of bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters.
Helmet requirements.
Requirements to obey traffic laws and traffic control devices.
Restrictions on riding in certain areas, such as sidewalks, parks, and playgrounds.
Identification of designated usage areas, including locations where devices are
prohibited.
Enforcement provisions and penalties for violations.
2. Create an Administrative Citation Program for Violations
Creating an administrative citation program would allow DPS to cite violations of the Municipal
Code, rather than the CA Vehicle Code. This would provide a level of local control that does
not currently exist. In addition, instead of routing violations through the court system, which
includes creating a vehicle infraction record, the City would administer the penalty – this will
speed up the process and allow the City to offset enforcement costs.
The citation process would begin with a warning for the first offense, followed by monetary
fines for repeat violations. As outlined in the California Government Code Section 36900, fine
amounts are as follows: $100 for a first violation, $200 for a second violation of the same
ordinance within one year, and $500 for each additional violation of the same ordinance within
one year of the first violation.
It should be noted that DPS staff would reserve the right to issue a “Warning” if the first
violation is not egregious in nature. An example of a case that might warrant a Warning is a
helmeted minor riding an e-bike briefly on a sidewalk in a residential area where there are no
pedestrians.
This program would apply to bicycles, e-scooters, and Class 1-3 e-bikes.
3. Continued Public Education and Outreach
Staff plans to continue and enhance public education and outreach efforts with the addition of
public service announcements, targeted social media posts, and additions to the current
website to include safety videos, resources, and information on the administrative citation
program.
Next Steps
With City Council approval of the coordinated strategy described above, Staff will implement
action items, including bringing back a bicycle ordinance for adoption, and report back to the
City Council in spring 2026 on their efficacy.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:
Strategy 2: Public Safety.
Objective B: Continue to invest in public safety technology and programs that advance
proactive, community policing and protect citizens and law enforcement.
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NOTICING REQUIREMENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH:
The City Council Agenda was posted.
ATTACHMENTS:
None.
584
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending
Sections 5.100.020 and 5.100.140 (Parks
and Recreation Areas and Facilities) and
Adding Chapter 6.73 (Micro-Mobility
Devices) of the Dublin Municipal Code
October 7, 2025
Background
•September 3, 2024 –City Council requested staff
explore e-bike and e-scooter program.
•May 6, 2025 –City Council received a personal
electric vehicle report and directed Staff to create an
ordinance.
•Staff developed the proposed amendments and
addition to the Dublin Municipal Code.
Analysis
•Personal Electric Vehicles
(PEVs) are increasing in
popularity.
•There is a need to codify
definitions and regulations.
•Definitions:
•E-Bikes
•E-Scooters
•Micro-Mobility Devices
Chapter 5 Amendments
•Amended Sections 5.100.020 (Definitions) and Section 5.100.140 (Operation of bicycles, vehicles, skates, skateboards, nonmotorized scooters and autos –Prohibited acts).
•Section 5.100.020
•Added definitions for “Bicycle” and “Micro-mobility device”.
•Section 5.100.140
•Addition of micro-mobility devices to prohibited acts in parks and streets.
Proposed Chapter 6.73
•Proposed addition of Chapter 6.73 -Micro-Mobility
Devices.
•Definitions based on the California Vehicle Code for:
•E-Bikes
•E-Scooter
•Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device
•Electrically Motorized Board
•Regulations and prohibitions for use in public spaces.
•Enforcement authority and penalties.
Next Steps
•If the ordinance is subsequently
adopted on October 21, Dublin
Police Services (DPS) will:
•Incorporate the ordinance into
operating procedures.
•Implement administrative citations
for infractions to the Ordinance.
•Conduct outreach to educate
residents on the changes.
Recommendation
Staff’s recommendation is to waive the reading and
introduce an Amending Sections 5.100.020
and 5.100.140 (Parks and Recreation Areas and
Facilities) and Adding Chapter 6.73 (Micro-Mobility
Devices) to the Dublin Municipal Code.
Questions?