Austin police are cracking down on e-motos on sidewalks and trails

Austin police and park rangers are stepping up enforcement of e-motorcycle rules on roads, sidewalks, and trails, KUT reported Sept. 4.

KUT’s distinction: an e-bike’s top speed is no more than 28 mph, usually with working pedals. An e-moto can have pedals, but typically has a larger motor and exceeds 28 mph. E-motos can operate on public streets with a driver’s license, insurance, and a helmet. They cannot be used on sidewalks and trails.

Assistant Chief Mike Chancellor told KUT officers will look for e-motos on sidewalks and trails, and for proper use on city roads. Warnings first. Tickets if a warning wouldn’t stop the behavior, or if the riding is dangerous. Arrest if it is egregious. Parents who knowingly allow a child under 18 to operate an e-moto could be cited. Park rangers got the same training for parks and trails.

Council Member Paige Ellis’s May resolution is the policy backdrop. Ellis told KUT the goal is education and safety, not punishing riders who don’t know the rules, and not an all-out ban. Staff are exploring designated recreational areas; any of that would have to come back to Council. Council Member Krista Laine told KUT the city needs clear, enforceable rules and licensing, with safety first.

We are not printing a fine. KUT did not.

Sources

• KUT, Sept. 4, 2026 — Luz Moreno-Lozano; APD Asst. Chief Mike Chancellor; Council Members Paige Ellis and Krista Laine