New model ordinance gives local communities tools to address growing safety concerns
Dayton, OH – As electric bikes, electric motorcycles, and other motorized devices become increasingly popular on Miami Valley streets and trails, local leaders are working together to address growing safety concerns and clarify the rules governing their use.
The Greater Dayton Mayors and Managers Association (GDMMA) and the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) today announced the availability of a model local ordinance addressing electric bicycles (e-bikes), electric motorcycles (e-motos), and Motorized Personal Mobility Devices (MPMDs). The model gives cities and villages across the region a consistent, ready-to-adapt starting point for regulating these devices as they become more common on local streets, sidewalks, and trails.
Used for both transportation and recreation, the increase in popularity of e-bike, e-motos, and MPMDs has been accompanied by an increase in injuries among both adult and minor riders. In our region Dayton Children’s has seen increases of over 200% in emergency room visits related to e-bikes and e-scooters. Additionally, because state law currently has no category for e-motos – vehicles that exceed the legal limits for electric bicycles – local governments are asking for legal tools to regulate their use on their local streets and neighborhoods.
“Communities across the region are facing many of the same questions about how to keep riders and pedestrians safe,” said Centerville Mayor Brooks Compton, President of the Greater Dayton Mayors and Managers Association. “Rather than having every community start from scratch, we brought together local leaders, law enforcement and legal experts to develop a thoughtful, consistent approach. This gives communities a valuable starting point while preserving their ability to make decisions that work best for their residents.”
Under the leadership of Katie Smiddy, City Manager of Oakwood, active involvement of State Representative Andrea White, and participation of the Greater Dayton Mayors and Managers Association, a study group to address these concerns was organized with members from area police departments, city officials and law directors. The study group was tasked with creating a Model E-Bike and E-Moto Ordinance.
Ohio law sorts e-bikes into three classes based on top assisted speed and whether the motor runs by pedaling or by throttle. E-motos look similar but are often more powerful and may fall outside the legal definition of an e-bike entirely. MPMDs include devices such as electric scooters and self-balancing boards. Because these categories overlap and are easy to confuse, residents, parents, and law enforcement often face uncertainty about what rules apply. The model ordinance does not propose to ban these vehicles, but rather to regulate where these vehicles may operate, and by whom.
“I am proud of our partnership with the Greater Dayton Mayors and Managers Association to develop this important resource for our Region,” said Brian O. Martin, AICP, Executive Director of the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission. “Electric bicycles are, and electric motorcycles can be, an important component of our transportation network in the Miami Valley. By leading with safety and regional consistency, this model can help ensure commuters in the Miami Valley have alternative, economical, and clean options for everyday mobility.”
The model ordinance was developed through a Working Group facilitated by Oakwood City Manager Katie Smiddy. The Working Group conducted a review of existing ordinances from Ohio communities, along with an analysis of regulatory gaps those ordinances commonly leave open. The model aligns with state law, including Ohio Revised Code 4511.522.
The model ordinance addresses several key issues, including:
- Age restrictions and helmet requirements
- Where different types of devices may operate, including streets, sidewalks, and shared-use paths
- Speed limits and safe operation
- Parental responsibility for underage riders
- Enforcement provisions, including penalties and impoundment
“One of the greatest strengths of this working group has been the diversity of perspectives represented at the table,” said Oakwood City Manager Katie Smiddy. “Throughout the process, we have had thoughtful discussions about balancing the growing popularity of these devices with the responsibility to protect riders, pedestrians, and motorists. Our goal was not simply to develop regulations, but to establish a practical and consistent framework that municipalities can adapt to meet their individual needs.”
The model ordinance is a voluntary resource. Each community may adopt it as written or adapt it to fit local conditions and priorities.
The model ordinance and supporting materials are available at mvrpc.org/e-bikes-and-e-motos. Local officials with questions, or who would like assistance adapting the ordinance, may contact Matt Lindsay, MVRPC Director of regional Environment and Economic Development Planning at [email protected] or 937.531.6548.
About the Organizations
About the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission:
The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) has served the planning needs of the Miami Valley in Southwest Ohio since 1964, serving the Region for more than sixty years. MVRPC serves as the Metropolitan Planning Organization for Montgomery, Miami, and Greene Counties, plus a portion of Northern Warren County. Since June 2024, MVRPC serves as the Regional Transportation Planning Organization for Darke, Preble, and Shelby Counties. MVRPC also provides Regional and Environmental planning support for members in seven counties.
About the Greater Dayton Mayors and Managers Association:
The Greater Dayton Mayors and Managers Association (GDMMA) is a regional organization that brings together mayors, city managers, and local government leaders from the Dayton metropolitan area to collaborate on municipal policies, share best practices, and address shared regional challenges.
Media Contact
GDMMA: Jay Weiskircher, Executive Director at [email protected] or call
937-424-1660
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