California city poised to ban e-bikes for children under 12

"The ordinance is in line with a state pilot program that took effect this year and allows cities in San Diego County to impose age restrictions for e-bike users. The program is set to run through 2029. Santee will became the latest to implement the restriction, following Chula Vista, Coronado, Poway and, most recently, San Marcos. The move will specifically ban children under 12 from operating Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes."

"For the first 60 days after the ordinance goes into effect, violators will be issued a warning, but after the initial grace period, violations will be punishable by a $25 fine. A Class 1 e-bike is defined as a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and can reach up to 20 mph."

Santee City Council unanimously approved tightening e-bike rules by banning operation of Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes by children under 12, pending a final December vote. The ordinance aligns with a state pilot program through 2029 that permits local age restrictions and follows several neighboring cities. Enforcement begins with a 60-day warning window, after which violations carry a $25 fine. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes can reach up to 20 mph, with Class 1 providing motor assistance only while pedaling and Class 2 offering throttle propulsion. Riders under 17 must wear helmets. City leaders emphasized public education for parents and schools.

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