HOA Guide: E-Bikes, E-Scooters, and E-Motorcycles
Community Safety Notice: Our HOA has observed many types of e-bikes and scooters being used in ways that may not comply with California law. For the safety of your children and neighbors, please review the list below and ensure all rules and requirements are followed. Recently, there have been several serious accidents involving young riders operating these devices improperly. El Dorado County, California quick reference for residents & guests
Always yield to pedestrians, ride predictably, and obey posted signs. Local jurisdictions (County, Cities, State Parks, Schools) may set stricter rules than the State.
Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes) — California’s 3 Classes
Class 1 (Pedal-assist, up to 20 mph; ≤750W)
Assists only while pedaling; no throttle (except walk-assist).
Where you can ride: In general, where regular bikes are allowed (streets, bike lanes, most paved paths) unless locally restricted.
Helmet & age: Helmet required if under 18. No statewide minimum age.
DMV/licensing: No driver’s license, registration, plates, or insurance.
Equipment: Manufacturer class/speed/wattage label required; do not modify to increase speed.
Class 2 (Throttle or pedal-assist, up to 20 mph; ≤750W)
Can move via throttle or pedal-assist.
Where you can ride: Generally same access as Class 1 unless a local rule limits it.
Helmet & age: Helmet required if under 18. No statewide minimum age.
DMV/licensing: None required (as above).
Equipment: Class label required; no tampering.
Class 3 (Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph; ≤750W; speedometer)
Faster pedal-assist; no throttle (aside from walk-assist).
Where you can ride: Streets and bike lanes; shared-use paths only if a local rule expressly allows it.
Helmet & age: Helmet required for all riders; minimum age 16; no passengers.
DMV/licensing: No driver’s license, registration, plates, or insurance.
Equipment: Class label and speedometer required; no tampering
Local trail note (El Dorado Trail): Only Class 1 & Class 2 e-bikes are allowed on the El Dorado Trail. Class 3 e-bikes are not permitted. Obey posted speeds and yield to pedestrians and equestrians.
Stand-Up Electric Scooters (Motorized Scooters)
Speed: Max 15 mph.
Where to ride: Use a bike lane where provided. If none: ride as far right as practicable on streets with a posted speed ≤25 mph; on higher-speed roads only within a bike lane (unless a local ordinance allows up to 35 mph streets).
Sidewalks: Riding on sidewalks is prohibited.
Rider: Driver’s license or learner’s permit required (any class). No passengers. Keep at least one hand on the handlebar.
Helmet: Required under 18 (recommended for all).
DMV: No registration or plates required.
Night riding: Headlamp/taillight/reflectors required; park without blocking sidewalks/ADA access.
