Draper officials outline enforcement of Utah's new e-motorcycle, e-bike and scooter rules

Mayor Troy Walker and Lieutenant Mike Elkins of the Draper City Police Department told listeners on the "Draper City Talk" podcast that Utah's 2026 law reclassifies high-powered electric devices and gives police clearer authority to cite, impound and, in some cases, confiscate vehicles used illegally.

The change matters, they said, because some electric motorcycles and heavily modified scooters resemble small dirt bikes and can exceed 20 mph using only their motors, placing them under motorcycle rules that require registration, insurance and a licensed operator. "If you can do more than 20 mph using the motor alone, you've got a new motorcycle," Lt. Elkins said.

Why it matters: Draper officials said these devices have caused injuries and repeated damage to parks and trails. Elkins described incidents in which high-speed riders knocked a trail user into a creek and where groups performing wheelies endangered rush-hour traffic. Mayor Walker and Elkins said the department has prosecuted cases involving these machines and will increase enforcement to protect public safety and city property.

What the law defines and requires: According to the podcast, Utah's new definitions treat devices with a power rating above 750 watts or those that can exceed 20 mph under motor power as e-motorcycles subject to standard motorcycle requirements. Operators of e-motorcycles must generally be at least 16, hold a driver's license with the proper endorsement, have vehicle registration and insurance, and — if under 21 — wear a DOT-approved helmet. Lt. Elkins noted DUI rules also apply.

E-bike classes and trails: The hosts explained distinctions among e-bike classes. Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist with a 20 mph assist cap and are generally treated like bicycles for trail access; class 2 have throttles (20 mph) and class 3 are pedal-assist up to 28 mph and require a speedometer. Mayor Walker and Elkins said pedals, throttle capability and any post-sale modifications can change a device's legal classification and where it may be ridden.

Restrictions and supervision for minors: The speakers reviewed age and supervision rules described in the new law: devices are restricted for very young children on public property; ages 8'15 may require close parental supervision on streets unless the rider holds a personal electric vehicle safety certificate; class 3 and other higher-speed devices carry additional age limits. "This really is a parenting issue first," Elkins said, urging parents to supervise purchases and use.

Enforcement and penalties: Draper officials said local enforcement options include citation, impoundment and, where warranted, confiscation. Owners who allow minors to operate devices illegally can face liability for property damage or personal injury, Elkins said. The podcast encouraged citizens to report illegal operation to non-emergency dispatch (80184000 as given on the broadcast) and to call 911 for immediate threats.

Examples, costs and outreach: Speakers noted that some popular e-motorcycle models (they cited Suron as an example) can cost roughly $5,000 and are therefore attractive to owners who then ride them in unsafe places. The city and police department are publishing guidance online and plan outreach and training on the new rules.

Closing: Walker and Elkins said Draper will enforce the law to protect riders, pedestrians and city property, while urging families to choose appropriate venues (for example, off-road areas) for high-powered devices. "We're going to enforce the full extent of the law," Walker said, "but the most important thing is safety."