Sartell Police Push for E-Bike and Scooter Ordinance Amid Surge in Complaints

(KNSI) – An explosion in complaints involving young riders on e-bikes and scooters has sparked the Sartell Police Department to remind residents of the rules of the road and look at enacting a city-wide ordinance governing their use.

Officers have been flooded with calls about young riders driving dangerously on public road right-of-ways, trails, and sidewalks. The issues have become so dire that city leaders are considering drafting rules to restrict their use in Sartell.

Police Chief Brandon Silgjord told KNSI News that he thinks many people are unaware of the state laws on the books, and he’s reaching out to parents to educate their kids. “As a police force, we’re not looking to try to be the fun police. We want kids in our area to be able to enjoy these devices. So, we’re really looking to educate parents on what the rules are, and trying to keep everyone safe so that we don’t necessarily feel like we’re stepping in to be parents.”

State law already requires anyone under the age of 18 on an e-bike or scooter to wear a helmet. There are age requirements to take the devices off private property. To use a motorized scooter, a person must be at least 12 years old. For e-bikes, the rider must be at least 15 years old.

They cannot be modified to go faster than their intended speed and must follow the same traffic laws as bicycles. Both e-bikes and scooters must use headlights and taillights when riding at night. For scooters, only one rider is allowed at a time, with no passengers. They must stay near the right-hand curb unless turning or avoiding obstacles.

Silgjord explained the rules are different for what is allowed on bike paths, sidewalks, and roadways. “one of the biggest points of discussion of these is, where do they belong? And there is some statute language out there already, and we’re just trying to figure out what’s best for our city as far as allowing these different devices.”

The issues have been referred to a committee that will look to draft an ordinance by the end of the year. A new rule could go on the books in 2026.

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