Proposed e-bike regulations progressing in Des Plaines

The Des Plaines City Council on Monday tentatively approved local regulations for e-bikes, e-scooters and similar battery-powered vehicles.

The city could join the ever-growing list of suburbs with such rules as soon as next month. Regulations vary from town to town.

Among other restrictions, Des Plaines’ proposal would prohibit anyone under 16 years old from operating an e-bike or similar vehicle on public streets and public sidewalks and in public parking lots.

Additionally:

• Low-speed e-bikes would be forbidden on any sidewalks in the city.

• People under the influence of liquor or drugs would be forbidden from operating e-bikes, e-scooters and other motorized vehicles.

• Lights and reflectors would be required after dark.

• Cramming more people onto an electric vehicle than such a device is designed to carry would be forbidden.

• Modifying a low-speed electric vehicle to enable faster travel than its design specifications would be prohibited.

Officials removed a helmet requirement from the proposal.

Violations would result in fines starting at $75 and up to $250.

Fifth Ward Alderman Thomas Merlin insisted officials aren’t cracking down on everyone with e-bikes or e-scooters.

“It’s a tool to go after people who are acting recklessly,” he said.

Fourth Ward Alderman Dick Sayad suggested parents review the pending regulations with kids who have e-bikes or e-scooters.

“We don’t want anyone to get hurt,” Sayad said.

Regulations for e-bikes and similar machines have been added to the books in Hoffman Estates, Mount Prospect, Palatine, Libertyville, Schaumburg and other suburbs in recent months.

A second vote on Des Plaines’ proposal is needed to make it official. That could happen when the council next meets at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 at city hall, 1420 Miner St.