The village board has passed an ordinance banning the use of all electric bicycles and electric scooters within the downtown area and in parks in Libertyville.
The Libertyville Village Board recently approved adopting Ordinance No. 25-O-48, which prohibits the use of electric bicycles and electric scooters in certain areas of the village.
The ordinance says that no one may operate low-speed electric bicycles or scooters, as defined by the Illinois Vehicle Code, within any village park or the C-1 Zoning District, also known as the downtown area.
The ordinance exempts village employees performing official duties and electric personal assistive mobility devices, such as those used for accessibility.
The Libertyville Police Department said Saturday they have fielded many questions and complaints regarding electric bicycles as they become increasingly popular, especially among youth.
Low-speed electric bicycles are defined as having fully operable pedals, an electric motor under 750 watts and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph, or up to 28 for Class 3 bikes.
In areas of the town where the electric bicycles are not banned, riders are permitted on roads where non-motorized bicycles are permitted, in bike lanes and on trails where bicycles are allowed.
Police said they have also seen an increase in young riders operating powerful electric dirt bikes, which do not meet Illinois’Â legal definition of a low-speed electric bicycle since they typically have motors exceeding 750 watts and can reach speeds higher than 28 mph.
Motor-driven cycles require a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and state registration.
Police also said anyone under 16 may not operate a Class 3 e-bike or any more powerful motor-driven vehicle.
“Parents, please talk with your kids about safe and legal riding. Our priority is the safety of all community members. Make sure your family understands the laws and uses only e-bikes that are legal, safe, and age-appropriate,” the police department said.