Sebastopol Ebikes

Below is the amendment of City of Sebastopol, California ordinance, reqarding inclusion of electric bicycles and electric scooters to be regarded and operated as pedal powered bicycles.

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ORDINANCE NO. 949

ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 437 (THE "SEBASTOPOL TRAFFIC ORDINANCE") TO PROMOTE THE USE OF ELECTRIC-ASSISTED BIKES AND SCOOTERS IN THE CITY OF SEBASTOPOL

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEBASTOPOL DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to clarify the position of the City of Sebastopol in regard to the use of electric-assisted bicycles and push scooters within its city limits. Thes devices shall be treated as bicycles, and be subject to the same regulations and provisions governing bicycles within the City. These transportation devices offer safe, pollution-free mobility to all residents. The City Council finds that over-dependence on automobiles is harming the health of its residents, the peaceful ambience of our community, and the surrounding environment. Electric bikes and scooters offer mobility for those who are physically unable or otherwise unwilling to drive or ride a pedal-only bicycle, while offer all residents relief from traffic congestion, reduction in air pollution, reduction in noise, and improved quality of life. Over 130 U.S. law enforcement agencies deploy electric-assisted bicycles in their daily patrols, including the City of Sebastopol Police Department, and find them to be both useful and safe.

Section 2. Article XIX of Ordinance No. 437 shal be amended to add thereto Section 19.20, which shall read as follows:

"Section 19.20. Electric-Assisted Bicycle or Push Scooter.
And electric-assisted bicycle or scooter means any electric transportation device, with and electric motor that is incapable of propelling the vehicle at speeds greate than 20 miles per hour. Electric bicycles and scooters shall be prohibited from travelling where bicycles are prohibited, and shall be subject to all rules and regulations governing the ownership, maintenance and use of bicycles."

Section 3. Except as herein amended, Ordinance No. 437 shall remain in full force and effect.

Section 4. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its passage.

In Council DULY Passed this 2nd Day of March, 1999

Mayor's signiture.
5 votes Ayes (unanimous)