Three U.S. Cities Pass New E-Bike and Scooter Laws

Municipal governments in Everett, Palmyra, and Panama City Beach recently implemented or proposed new regulations for electric bicycles and scooters to combat rising injuries and improve pedestrian safety.

The Government of Everett approved an ordinance on July 22, 2026, that classifies devices by speed. Micromobility devices traveling under 20 mph may be used where bicycles are permitted, while powered personal transporters exceeding 20 mph are restricted to roadways and private property. The rules mandate helmets for riders under 16 and adult supervision for children under 11. While Council Member Luis Burbano successfully added an amendment allowing scooters on streets with speed limits above 30 mph when sidewalks are unavailable, Council Member Paula Rhyne expressed concern over funneling users toward dangerous areas lacking infrastructure.

In Palmyra, the city council passed an ordinance on July 23, 2026, prohibiting anyone under 16 from operating Class 3 e-bikes and banning all e-bikes from sidewalks. Repeat offenders face fines and vehicle impoundment. Simultaneously, the Panama City Beach City Council held a first reading for a proposal to limit Class 1 pedal-assisted e-bikes to 10 mph on sidewalks, while banning all other e-bike classes from sidewalk use. A second reading for the Panama City Beach proposal is scheduled for early August.