E-Bikes & Scooter Safety

E-Bike Rules and Regulations

E-bikes are typically classified into a three-class system based on whether the motor assists only when pedaling and the top-assisted speed. These e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks and must abide by the Bicycle Rules of the Road. 

Types of E-Bikes:

• Type 1: Max speed of 20 mph with pedal assist only, no throttle.
• Type 2: Max speed of 20 mph with pedal assist and throttle, allowing operation without pedaling.
• Type 3: Max speed of 28 mph with pedal assist only, no throttle. These e-bikes are closer to motorcycles and mopeds in function. Riders must be at least 16 years old.  

NOTE: Although Type 1 and Type 2 E-bikes do not have a minimum age restriction, the Consumer Product Safety Commission does not recommend children under the age of 13 operate motorized wheeled vehicles, such as e-bikes, that can travel faster than 10 mph.

⚠️ If the vehicle has pegs instead of pedals, and/or a motor larger than 750 watts, it is not an e-bike — it is an off-highway vehicle and cannot be driven on public roads or spaces. It also requires a driver’s license, insurance, registration, and other related equipment.

E-Bike Regulations:

• Must be labeled with classification, top assisted speed, and motor wattage
• Are not permitted on sidewalks, including the downtown area
• Must be equipped with a lamp at the front and a reflector at the back to operate at night
• Can only be ridden on the roadway and must abide by the Bicycle Rules of the Road.

Download the E-Bikes in the Village of Lombard (PDF) handout.

Non-Highway Vehicles/Motorcycle Rules & Regulations

Non-highway motorcycles are small, gas- or battery-powered vehicles that are not designed or approved for use on public roadways. These include:

• Dirt bikes,
• Pocket bikes 
• Mini bikes

These vehicles are not allowed to be operated on:

• Public streets or roadways
• Sidewalks
• Public parks
• School grounds
• Any other public property

They may only be used on private property with the property owner’s permission. 

Operating a Non-Highway Motorcycle in Public Places Is Illegal

Riding non-highway motorcycles or off-highway vehicles in public areas is not only prohibited, but it also poses a danger to pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists.

Potential penalties include:

• Citations to the rider or parent/guardian
• Delays in obtaining a driver’s license for minors (until the age of 21)
• Parent/guardian liability for civil damages, fines and court costs

Law enforcement may also impound or seize unauthorized vehicles that are being used illegally.

How to Tell the Difference: E-Bikes vs. Off-Highway Vehicles

It is important to understand the difference between an e-bike and an off-highway vehicle. E-bikes are allowed on public roads if they meet specific criteria. However, off-highway vehicles are not street-legal and may not be operated on public property. 

⚠️ If the vehicle has pegs instead of pedals, and/or a motor larger than 750 watts, it is not an e-bike — it is an off-highway vehicle and cannot be driven on public roads or spaces. It also requires a driver’s license, insurance, registration, and other related equipment. 

Frequently Asked Questions: Electric Scooter Regulations 

1.    Why did the Village create an ordinance for electric scooters?

A new Illinois state law (P.A. 103-0899) went into effect on August 9, 2024, prohibiting the use of low-speed electric scooters unless a municipality specifically authorizes them through a local ordinance. The law also sets statewide rules for communities that do allow scooters, including age requirements, equipment standards and limitations on where scooters can be used.

To allow their continued use, the Village of Lombard passed a local ordinance that aligns with state law. While the Village cannot make the rules less restrictive than what the state requires, it has added safety measures to help protect riders, pedestrians and drivers.

2.    What is a low-speed electric scooter?

A low-speed electric scooter is a device with two or three wheels, handlebars and a floorboard, weighing less than 100 pounds and powered by an electric motor and/or human power. The scooter must not exceed a maximum speed of 10 mph.

3.    Who is allowed to ride electric scooters in Lombard?

Per Illinois state law, riders must be 18 years of age or older.

4.    Where can electric scooters be used?

Electric scooters may be operated on public streets with speed limits of 30 mph or lower and with fewer than four lanes. They are not allowed on state highways, roads with posted speed limits over 30 mph or on four-lane roads.

5.    Are there any specific areas in Lombard where electric scooters are not allowed?

Yes. Electric scooters may not be operated on the following public roads or sidewalks, provided signs or markings are posted to indicate such activity:

•  St. Charles Rd (Elizabeth St. to Martha St.)
•  Lincoln Ave (St. Charles Rd to Michael McGuire Dr.)
• Park Ave (Orchard Terrace to Michael McGuire Dr.)
• Main St (Grove St. to Parkside Ave.)
• Elizabeth St (St. Charles Rd to Michael McGuire Dr.)

In addition, electric scooters are not permitted on Lombard Park District property or state highways. 

6.    What safety features are required on electric scooters?

Electric scooters must have a working brake, a white front light and red rear reflector or light for night use and must be kept in good operating condition.

7.    Are electric scooters allowed on sidewalks?

Electric scooter use on sidewalks is discouraged and is restricted in certain areas, including the Downtown Lombard business district. Riders must yield to pedestrians at all times.

8.    Can two people ride one electric scooter?

No. Only one person is allowed per electric scooter.

9.    Can electric scooters be parked anywhere?

Electric scooters must be parked in the same manner and locations as bicycles.

10.    How is the Village enforcing these rules?

The Village’s current focus is on public education. Signage, social media outreach and communication with local school districts efforts are being used to inform the community. 

11.    Where can I find more information?

For the full ordinance, maps of no-ride zones and downloadable resources, visit www.villageoflombard.org/e-scooters or contact the Lombard Police Department’s non-emergency line at (630) 873-4470.