Lake Bluff is joining a growing number of Illinois communities set to adopt new rules for e-bikes and e-scooters, citing safety concerns surrounding the increasingly popular devices.
On Sept. 8, trustees gave initial approval to regulations that build on existing state law, which already prohibits anyone under 16 from riding an e-bike capable of exceeding 20 mph. Illinois also caps low-speed e-scooters at 10 mph, bars them from roads with speed limits above 35 mph, and requires e-bike riders to be at least 18.
The village’s proposed measures include:
- E-bikes: Riders must walk all three classes of e-bikes on sidewalks in the central business district. Riding on sidewalks elsewhere is also prohibited under state law.
- E-scooters: Permitted in the village, but they must be walked on sidewalks in the business district.
- E-motorcycles: Banned throughout the village, except on roadways outside the business district if compliant with state law.
- Toy vehicles: Discouraged on roadways and trails but allowed on sidewalks if children are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Personal mobility devices:
The village board is expected to vote on final approval at its Sept. 22 meeting.
“I think the goal of this was public safety and keeping our kids and residents safe. I think we have accomplished it,” Trustee Raffi Elchemmas said.
Village Attorney Peter Friedman noted violators could face fines. Police Chief Matt Smizinski said officers have already launched a safety campaign in local schools.
District 65 officials are welcoming the changes in the village regulations.
Lake Bluff Middle School Principal Nate Blackmer noted he believes there is an increase in students riding electronic devices to the school so far this year.
While Blackmer said there haven’t been any reported incidents or safety concerns near school property, officials are trying to take precautions.
“We are working hard to reinforce expectations for students who ride bikes, e-bikes, and scooters to school. They are required to wear a helmet and walk their bike, e-bike, or scooter while on school property,” he explained in an e-mail.
Blackmer said students riding bikes, scooters, skateboards, and e-bikes are required to wear a helmet, and so fa,r there has been 100 % compliance this year.
Blackmer added that District 65 does not have a specific policy for e-bike or e-scooter use, but they expect compliance with current laws and regulations.
“If we notice students not complying with those laws, we will work with our families and the Lake Bluff Police Department if necessary to have the issue addressed,” he said.
Blackmer mentioned families have received notice that high-powered electric dirt bikes are not allowed, and officers will escort underage riders home.
At Lake Forest High School, spokeswoman Melissa Oakley said school guidelines align with local ordinances.
“We ask our students and staff to remain vigilant and are grateful for the support of our parent and guardian community, encouraging safe and responsible use,” Oakley wrote in a statement.
Many other Illinois municipalities, such as Glencoe, Morton Grove, and Park Ridge, have recently enacted new regulations regarding e-bike or e-scooter use.
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.