Ordinance Update: E-Bike Safety

Published Friday, December 12, 2025

On December 11, 2025, the Santee City Council approved an ordinance update to the Santee Municipal Code regarding e-bikes in an effort to promote safety for both riders, pedestrians and drivers.

Ordinance Update Implementation Timeline:

• January 11, 2026 -  60 day warning notice period starts
• March 11, 2026 – Warning period ends, violation fines begin

 

E-Bike Safety Rules with Ordinance Update:

• Children under 12 will not be permitted to operate or ride a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike.
  • Violations may incur a fine
• Riders under 16 may not operate a Class 3 e-bike.
• Helmets are required for:
  • All riders and passengers on Class 3 e-bikes
  • All riders under 18 on any bike or e-bike
• Riding on sidewalks is prohibited where the City has posted signs.
• E-bike riders must follow the same traffic laws as vehicle drivers on streets, highways, and Class 1 bike paths.
• Passengers are only allowed on bikes or e-bikes designed for more than one rider (e.g., additional seat and footrests). 

San Diego County Sherriff's Office E-Bike Safety Tips