Brantford City Council Recommends Review of Outdated E-Bike Bylaws

The Brantford City Council recommended the approval of a resolution on July 7 to conduct a comprehensive review of the city's bylaw governing power-assisted bicycles on local trails and multi-use paths. Developed by Councillor Richard Carpenter and local business owner Stuart Querney, the initiative seeks to modernize regulations that have not been updated since 2014.

The review aims to permit e-bikes that comply with provincial legislation, specifically those limited to 500 watts and a speed of 32 km/h. However, officials intend to maintain prohibitions on modified, non-compliant, or scooter-style electric vehicles. This action follows a September 2025 incident in which local police recorded a modified e-bike traveling 82 km/h in a 50 km/h zone.

The process will include consultations with accessibility advocates, cycling organizations, and public safety representatives. These discussions will focus on police enforcement strategies, helmet requirements, and safety measures. The effort coincides with a broader review by the Province of Ontario to better distinguish between pedal-assist bicycles and scooter-type vehicles.