Responding to a growing number of complaints about unsafe riding behavior, the Oakdale City Council unanimously approved the introduction of a new ordinance Monday night, June 1 that would give police expanded authority to impound bicycles, e-bikes and other motorized devices used in ways that endanger public safety.

The proposed ordinance amends Chapter 19 of the Oakdale Municipal Code and adds Section 19.67, establishing regulations governing the unsafe operation of bicycles, electric bicycles and motorized devices on city streets, sidewalks, parks and trails.

The measure passed on a 5-0 vote after council members discussed enforcement, education and potential long-term recreational alternatives for riders. Oakdale Police Chief Jason Grogan said the ordinance was developed in response to increasing concerns from residents regarding dangerous riding behavior throughout the city.

“The city of Oakdale has experienced an increase in complaints and safety concerns related to the operation of bicycles, electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, and other motorized devices within public parks, trails, sidewalks, and streets,” Grogan told the council.

According to the chief, complaints have included excessive speed, failure to yield to pedestrians, stunt riding, unsafe operation near vehicles and damage to city property. He said the city’s existing municipal code does not comprehensively address many of the issues associated with the growing popularity of e-bikes and similar devices.

The proposed ordinance establishes definitions consistent with California Vehicle Code classifications, prohibits unsafe operation and grants law enforcement officers authority to seize and impound devices used in violation of the ordinance. It also provides an administrative hearing process and due process protections for owners seeking the return of impounded devices.

One of the ordinance’s most significant provisions allows police to impound a bicycle or e-bike for up to 30 days when riders engage in dangerous conduct such as reckless operation, stunt riding or behavior that creates a risk to pedestrians, motorists or property.

“This will help us,” Grogan said. “If they’re riding them on the sidewalk and swerving into pedestrians, swerving into vehicles, this allows us to take it for 30 days.”

Grogan emphasized repeatedly that the ordinance is intended to target unsafe behavior rather than prohibit lawful use of e-bikes.

“This isn’t banning the use of e-bikes,” he said. “We want people to ride safely and go by the rules of the road.”

Mayor Cherilyn Bairos said the issue has become one of the most common concerns raised by residents.

“Just so everybody’s aware, this is on the agenda tonight because we have gotten many, many, many, many complaints,” Bairos said, adding that the problem is being reported throughout the community.

Council members also discussed whether enforcement alone is enough to address the issue.

Council Member Jarod Pitassi argued that the city should begin exploring the possibility of creating a designated area where young riders can legally operate dirt bikes, e-bikes and electric motorcycles.

“These bikes exist. They’re not going away,” Pitassi said. “We need to provide somewhere for the kids to go ride them.”

Pitassi compared the idea to the city’s skate park, noting that Oakdale once struggled with conflicts involving skateboarders before ultimately creating a dedicated facility.

“If we’re going to hold them accountable and they have nowhere to go except riding around town through the basin parks and stuff like that, you’re just going to be chasing them around,” Pitassi said.

Bairos expressed support for exploring the concept, noting that community demand eventually led to the development of Oakdale’s skate park. Council members discussed the possibility of future grant opportunities but acknowledged that such a project would likely require significant planning and funding.

In addition to enforcement, city leaders emphasized education. Bairos encouraged the Police Department to conduct community information sessions for parents and riders if the ordinance is adopted and highlighted local bicycle safety programs. Grogan noted that school resource officers already provide bicycle and e-bike safety education throughout Oakdale schools and that the department regularly conducts outreach efforts with students and families.

The chief said officers are already conducting enforcement operations related to unsafe e-bike use and have issued citations and impounded devices under existing laws when appropriate. The new ordinance, he said, would provide additional tools to address behavior that threatens public safety.

Following discussion, the council approved the ordinance’s introduction and waived the first reading on a unanimous 5-0 vote. The measure included a minor amendment clarifying where motorized vehicles may legally operate. Mayor Pro Tem Kayleigh Gilbert made the motion, which was seconded and approved by all five council members.

The ordinance is expected to return to the council for final adoption at a future meeting before taking effect.