Sponsored message
Logged in as
Audience-funded nonprofit news
radio tower icon laist logo
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Subscribe
  • Listen Now Playing Listen
  • Listen Now Playing Listen
Transportation & Mobility

LA is considering banning e-bikes from hiking and other trails

Two people wearing helmets and are riding on an electric bike along a paved sidewalk. Sand is off the trail with another bike parked off to the side.
The city of Los Angeles is considering banning e-bikes from equestrian, hiking and recreational trails.
(
Mel Melcon
/
Getty Images
)

This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.

Topline:

The city of Los Angeles is considering banning electric bicycles from equestrian, hiking and recreational trails. The controversial bikes have faced backlash for dangerous speeding, following a rise in injuries across the U.S.

What’s the latest? The city’s Arts, Parks, Libraries, and Community Enrichment Committee on Tuesday approved the proposal at its meeting Tuesday. The group also asked staff to return with a report on fines based on income and the scope of the restrictions.

How we got here: In 2022, a state law was passed that allows local jurisdictions to ban e-bikes from specific trails. Similar restrictions have been adopted in Orange County. The city of La Palma, for example, banned e-bikes from athletic fields and equestrian and recreational trails.

Background: State lawmakers are also considering a bill that would require e-bike licenses and owner registration. The law is intended to address a rise in e-bike-related injuries. The law would apply to Class 2 and Class 3 bikes, which can reach 20 mph and 28 mph, respectively.

What’s next? The proposal will go before the city’s transportation committee next. A date has not yet been scheduled.

You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.

Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.

If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.

Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief

Make your tax-deductible donation today