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MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Brooklyn Park Draft Ordinance Would Set E-Bike Rules, Restrict E-Motos and Establish Enforcement Powers
The proposal distinguishes electric bicycles from more powerful vehicles and outlines where different devices could operate.
BROOKLYN PARK, MN (October 23, 2026). Brooklyn Park staff have developed an ordinance intended to clarify how electric bicycles, motorized scooters, e-motos and personal assistive mobility devices may operate on city streets, sidewalks and park property.
The proposal appeared in the Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission’s October 21 meeting packet. Staff’s proposed timetable identifies October 26 for a City Council first reading and November 16 for final consideration. Those are proposed legislative steps; the draft should not be treated as an ordinance already in effect.
Under the draft, qualifying electric bicycles could use sidewalks while yielding to pedestrians, traveling at a reasonable speed and slowing to walking speed when approaching or passing people. Park and trail access would remain subject to posted restrictions, closures and pedestrian-only designations.
E-motos would face different restrictions, including exclusion from shared-use paths and most park areas. Street operation would require compliance with applicable motorcycle and registration requirements.
The proposal also addresses helmets for riders younger than 18, parental responsibility for juvenile violations and impoundment of e-motos that violate the ordinance and lack proper state registration. Staff developed the language with police and the city attorney.
Why the vehicle classification matters
Minnesota law distinguishes electric-assisted bicycles by their equipment and operating characteristics.
Class 1 bicycles provide pedal assistance up to 20 mph. Class 2 bicycles can provide motor propulsion without pedaling, with assistance ending at 20 mph. Class 3 bicycles provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph. A qualifying electric bicycle must also meet requirements involving operable pedals, motor power and safety testing.
Those distinctions mean that speed alone does not establish whether a vehicle is an electric bicycle. A manufacturer’s designation, equipment and capabilities matter.
Existing state law also prohibits people younger than 15 from operating electric-assisted bicycles and allows certain local restrictions on trail use.
For Brooklyn Park families, the proposed ordinance makes the vehicle’s classification a central question before deciding where it can be ridden. Residents can review the draft in the October 21 commission packet and follow subsequent council agendas for revisions and action.
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