E-conveyance-related incidents have risen sharply in recent years in the City of Menifee. In 2023, there were six reported e-bike collisions in Menifee. By 2024, this number had increased to 16 reported collisions. Injuries associated with these collisions range from complaints of pain to severe injury.
To help ensure community safety, the City of Menifee is developing a new electric conveyance ordinance. This ordinance will establish clear operational rules and safety regulations for electric bikes, scooters, and skateboards. Penalties of fines up to $500 for non-compliance are also being introduced.
The Menifee Police Department will partner closely with local school districts to incorporate e-conveyance safety education into school initiatives, emphasizing safe riding habits and awareness. This collaborative effort aims to reduce accidents and foster a safer environment for all residents.
Key provisions of the ordinance include:
- Helmet requirement for riders under 18 years old
- Prohibition of headphones, earbuds, or other audio devices while operating an e-Conveyance
- E-conveyances must be equipped with a front-facing white light for night riding and reflectors on both wheels and the rear of all bicycles and e-bikes
- Prohibition from carrying more passengers than the e-conveyance can accommodate
- Strictly prohibits a modified e-bike exceeding 28 miles per hour on roadways, sidewalks, trails, or public property
- Maximum speed of 20 miles per hour on public highways, trails, paths, parks, or other public property within the city
Prior to preparing this ordinance, the Menifee Police Department researched local regulations pertaining to e-conveyances and contacted other neighboring jurisdictions. Staff found that multiple jurisdictions throughout Southern California were either in the process of implementing similar ordinances, had already adopted them, or were amending existing ordinances to improve safety for their communities and to address the rising concerns related to e-conveyances. These findings assisted in the development of the proposed ordinance, ensuring alignment with regional safety efforts and incorporating best practices.
This ordinance will go before the Menifee City Council for consideration on Wednesday, February 19. It would take effect 30 days after its adoption.
