MODESTO, Calif. — Bicycle and e-bike riders in Modesto could face steep financial penalties for dangerous riding under a proposed city ordinance that aims to improve safety on public streets, parks and trails.
The proposal would introduce fines of up to $5,000 for repeat violations, allow police to impound bicycles for as long as 30 days in certain circumstances, and potentially hold parents financially responsible when their children engage in prohibited behavior.
The Modesto City Council has moved the measure forward by waiving its first reading. However, the ordinance still needs final approval before the new restrictions can take effect.
Repeat Offenders Could Face Thousands of Dollars in Fines
Under the proposed rules, penalties would increase with each offense:
- First offense: $500
- Second offense: $2,500
- Third or subsequent offense: $5,000
The crackdown would focus on dangerous behavior, including bicycle stunts on public streets, groups of riders obstructing traffic and street takeovers that disrupt normal road use.
Residents who spoke during the council discussion urged city leaders to take traffic safety more seriously, expressing concerns about conduct that can put riders, motorists and pedestrians at risk.
The proposal is intended to give authorities stronger enforcement options when bicycle or e-bike activity becomes dangerous. However, the size of the proposed fines has also raised questions about whether the penalties would be appropriate in every situation.
Debate Over Penalties for Young Riders
One issue raised during the discussion was how the ordinance would apply to minors, particularly those involved in a first-time violation that does not involve a street takeover.
A resident suggested allowing young riders to receive a warning and complete a safety course before facing a financial penalty for certain initial offenses.
The proposal would allow police to require safety courses for minors. Such an approach could give young riders an opportunity to understand traffic rules and the consequences of unsafe behavior while helping prevent repeat incidents.
At the same time, police officials emphasized that street takeovers are not limited to teenagers. The police chief noted that adults have also participated in these gatherings, suggesting that enforcement would need to address dangerous conduct across age groups.
Parents Could Face Fines of Up to $2,000
The proposed ordinance could also affect parents and guardians. Adults who assist, authorize or permit a minor to violate the rules could face fines of up to $2,000 per child.
However, questions remain about how responsibility would be established in individual cases. The proposal identifies circumstances in which parents could be penalized but does not fully explain what evidence officers would need to demonstrate that a parent knowingly allowed or supported a violation.
That distinction could become important if the measure is adopted, particularly in cases where a young rider acts without a parent’s knowledge.
Proposed 15 MPH Limit for Parks and Trails
The plan also calls for a speed limit of 15 miles per hour on city parks and trails, adding another layer to the proposed safety rules.
The restriction prompted questions from a councilwoman about how officers would identify riders exceeding the limit and enforce it consistently.
Enforcement on shared trails can be more complicated than on ordinary roads because pedestrians, cyclists and other users often occupy the same space. Clear signage, consistent rules and practical enforcement procedures could therefore play an important role if the speed restriction moves forward.
Mayor Sue Zwahlen said the city wants residents to continue enjoying its outdoor spaces, including walking and cycling on local trails.
The challenge for city leaders will be balancing that goal with concerns about dangerous riding and the safety of people using the same public areas.
When Could the New Rules Take Effect?
The council’s latest action advances the proposal but does not make it law. The ordinance must receive final approval before implementation.
If adopted, the rules would take effect 30 days after the final vote.
Until then, the proposed fine schedule, bicycle impoundment provisions, parental penalties and trail speed limit remain subject to the city’s approval process.
The next stage will determine whether Modesto adopts the restrictions as written or makes changes to address concerns about enforcement, penalties for minors and parental responsibility.
