WINTERS, Calif. — People riding e-bikes and other electric transportation devices in Winters now face tighter restrictions as the city moves to separate faster-moving vehicles from pedestrians and other users of public spaces.
The updated rules took effect Sept. 2 and prohibit e-bikes, e-scooters and similar electric transportation devices from operating on city sidewalks, in city parks, on school grounds and along the Creek Walk. The restrictions also cover city streets that have been closed to traffic for special events.
The changes follow complaints about unsafe e-bike activity on sidewalks and streets. City officials and police have said the goal is to address potentially dangerous riding before a serious crash occurs.
The new regulations extend beyond where electric devices can be ridden. Riders are prohibited from holding and using a phone while operating the devices and cannot wear headphones that prevent them from hearing surrounding traffic.
Off-highway electric motorcycles are also prohibited from public streets under the updated municipal code.
The city adopted Ordinance 2026-07 on Aug. 4, adding rules covering electric bicycles, electrically motorized scooters, off-highway electric motorcycles and electrically motorized boards. The restrictions do not amount to a blanket ban on legal e-bikes throughout Winters; riders can still use public streets where permitted under California law.
Fines increase for repeat violations
The first violation can result in a $50 fine. A subsequent violation can carry a $100 fine.
Police may also take enforcement action involving the vehicle in certain circumstances. Existing state requirements for e-bike riders remain in effect alongside the city’s local rules.
Winters officials had already been increasing attention on e-bike and scooter safety earlier this year. In a May update, the city said the growing use of electric bikes, scooters and e-motorcycles had been accompanied by unsafe and illegal riding that could put riders, pedestrians and motorists at risk.
California law also separates e-bikes into three classes. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes can reach speeds of up to 20 mph under their respective operating systems, while Class 3 e-bikes can provide assistance up to 28 mph. Winters’ guidance reminds riders that they must continue to follow applicable state traffic and equipment requirements.
School safety remains a focus
E-bike safety has also become an issue around local schools. Police have been working with the school district on safe riding practices, while the district previously restricted e-bikes on school property.
For residents who use electric bikes for transportation, the new rules mean that sidewalks, parks and other designated public areas are no longer options for riding. That puts greater importance on understanding which streets and routes remain legal under both Winters’ municipal rules and California law.
The city has said the enforcement effort is intended to improve safety for riders as well as pedestrians and motorists as electric transportation becomes more common in Winters.
