Leawood and Lander Pass New E-Bike Safety Ordinances
City councils in Leawood, Kansas, and Lander, Wyoming, have passed new regulations to govern the speed, age limits, and sidewalk usage of e-bikes and scooters.
Municipal governments in Kansas and Wyoming have implemented new safety regulations for electric bicycles and micromobility devices to address growing safety concerns. The Leawood City Council approved an ordinance taking effect December 15, 2026, which establishes a 15 mph speed limit on sidewalks and trails. The rules prohibit children under 16 from operating Class 3 e-bikes or devices exceeding 20 mph and mandate helmets for minors. These measures follow a local tragedy involving the death of a fourth-grade boy on an e-scooter.
In a separate action, the Lander City Council unanimously passed an ordinance in mid-October 2026. The Lander policy prohibits e-bikes and scooters on sidewalks along most of Main Street, though it maintains exemptions for mobility devices. Violations in Lander carry a maximum penalty of $750, with a tiered fine system for juveniles under 16 ranging from $25 to $400.
Lander officials emphasized a collaborative approach to the new rules, working with local bike shops and the school district. Mayor Missy White stated the city intends for the policy to be "educational first," prioritizing public safety over punitive measures. Council president Julia Stuble noted that the policy is designed to enhance community safety while still honoring the desire for residents to use bikes and devices in a responsible manner.
