King County Legalizes E-Bikes and Scooters on Trails: What You Need to Know

Published September 3, 2024

In a significant update to local regulations, the King County Council has officially legalized the use of Class 1 and 2 e-bikes and electric scooters on county-operated trails. Many residents may not have realized that riding these devices on trails was previously prohibited, as e-bike and scooter riders have been using them safely for years! This change is part of a broader revision of King County Parks rules, bringing some long-overdue clarity and modernization to the regulations.

Key Changes in King County Parks Rules

The recent updates to the parks rules include several noteworthy changes:

E-Bikes and Scooters Legalized on Trails: The most significant change is the legalization of Class 1 and 2 e-bikes and electric scooters on trails managed by King County Parks. The Council has also introduced a new definition of “micromobility devices,” which includes e-bikes, motorized foot scooters, electric skateboards, and other small, electric-powered devices. These devices are now explicitly exempt from being classified as “motor vehicles,” meaning they can be used on trails that prohibit motor vehicles, provided there are no signs indicating otherwise.

Speed Limits Adjusted for Mountain Bikers: Another interesting update is the revised speed limit rules for mountain biking. Instead of a fixed 15 mph limit, mountain bikers are now required to ride at a speed that is “reasonable and prudent” given the trail conditions and potential hazards. This flexible approach could be more effective in promoting safe behavior on trails compared to a rigid speed limit, especially since most bikes lack speedometers.

Trails Still Close at Sundown: Despite discussions, the Council did not change the rule that technically closes trails at sundown. However, they did mandate the Parks Department to assess the feasibility of extending trail hours, considering the importance of trails as transportation routes. This could lead to future changes allowing nighttime use, which many trail users already do despite the current rules.

Implications of the New Rules

These changes are important for several reasons:

Harmonization with State and Neighboring County Laws: By aligning the definitions of e-bike classes with state law and neighboring counties like Snohomish and Pierce, the Council has made it easier for users to navigate different jurisdictions without worrying about conflicting rules.

Emphasizing Trails as Transportation Routes: The Council’s recognition of trails as vital transportation corridors, not just recreational spaces, is a significant step forward. It highlights the need for consistent rules and potentially longer operating hours to accommodate commuters who rely on these routes, especially in urban areas.

Concerns About Trail Closures at Night: The decision to maintain the rule that trails close at sundown, while technically enforceable, seems out of touch with the reality that many people use these trails after dark for commuting. The potential safety risks of forcing cyclists onto busy streets at night instead of allowing them to use safer, more direct trail routes are significant. This rule may also be used selectively to target vulnerable populations, such as the unhoused.

Looking Ahead: The Need for Consistent Trail Rules

In summary, the legalization of e-bikes and scooters on King County trails is a welcome and necessary change, reflecting how people already use these spaces. However, there is still work to be done to ensure that trail rules are consistent, fair, and supportive of all users, day or night!