ROCK SPRINGS — The Rock Springs City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that sets rules for riding electric bicycles and electric scooters in the city Tuesday night.
Violations carry a fine not to exceed $50 per offense.
Under the ordinance, e-bikes and scooters are allowed on all sidewalks and pedestrian paths, but riders must travel at “prudent speeds” and yield to pedestrians before overtaking or passing.
On public streets, riders have the same rights and duties as drivers under Wyoming law and must follow traffic laws and signals. The ordinance states that nothing in it designates any city street as a bike route or as suitable for e-bike or e-scooter travel.
E-bikes, scooters, and other motorized devices are prohibited on sports courts, playing fields, playgrounds, and landscaped park lawns. They may use paved sidewalks and pedestrian paths that cross through parks. Motor vehicles are barred from sidewalks and pedestrian paths.
The ordinance adopts the state’s definition of an e-bike as a bicycle with fully operable pedals, a seat, and a motor under 750 watts, in one of three classes. Class 1 and Class 2 motors stop assisting at 20 mph, and Class 3 at 28 mph. Any motorized bicycle with a motor of 750 watts or more is classified as a motor vehicle. E-scooters are subject to the same rules as well.
The ordinance states that riders under 18 years old on a class 3 e-bike must use a helmet.
Councilman David Thompson asked the Rock Springs Police Department Chief Bill Erspamer to report any problems officers have with the ordinance. He said the council is open to changes so it is enforceable and does not cause problems for officers.
