Title
Introduce, waive first reading, and set December 9, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. as the date and time to consider adoption of ordinance amending Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code to update the definitions of “bicycle” and “electric bicycle”, to add language permitting the use of electronic bicycles in the same manner and locations as traditional bicycles, and to add language concerning which type of trail users must yield to other trails users within County Parks.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors introduce, waive first reading, and set December 9, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. as the date and time to consider adoption of ordinance amending Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code to update the definitions of “bicycle” and “electric bicycle”, to add language permitting the use of electronic bicycles in the same manner and locations as traditional bicycles, and to add language concerning which type of trail users must yield to other trails users within County Parks.
SUMMARY:
The ordinance to Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code will update the definitions of “bicycle” and “electric bicycle”, to add language permitting the use of electronic bicycles in the same manner and locations as traditional bicycles, and to add language concerning which type of trail users must yield to other trails users within County Parks. This is consistent with the California Vehicle Code.
DISCUSSION:
On December 2, 2021, the County of Monterey Parks Commission (Commission) received a comprehensive informational report regarding the use of electric bicycles within various jurisdictional boundaries including the County of Monterey.
On December 1, 2022, an Ad Hoc Committee (Committee) was formed to research e-bikes and meet with local community members regarding the use of e-bikes in County parks. The newly formed Committee consisted of Commissioners Getzelman, Sanchez and Stracke.
On July 2023, the Commission released a County-wide survey to gather information regarding a possible update to the ordinance for e-bike use within County parks which was posted on social media platforms, advertised in local media, and distributed to user groups previously involved with trail use at County parks. This survey was also distributed to specialty use groups such as the Monterey Offroad Cycling Association (MORCA), community members, park visitors, and County employees.
The survey results were presented between November 2023 through October 2024. The results showed the public was in favor of allowing e-bikes to be used in County parks. There were further discussions between the Commissioners and staff regarding speed limits, trail etiquette and whether other electric transportation modalities should be allowed.
On October 2, 2025, the Commission considered and voted to move forward with the recommendation that Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code be amended.
Staff now returns with a draft ordinance for the Board’s consideration (Attachment A). The ordinance amends Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code definition of “bicycle” and “electric bicycle” and amends the language to permit the use of electronic bicycle in the same manner and locations as traditional bikes within the Monterey County Parks, and adds language which states that bicycle and electric bicycle users must yield to pedestrians and equestrians, and that pedestrians must yield to equestrians. The amended language is consistent with the California Vehicle Code.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Department of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks - Parks Division conferred with the Bureau of Land Management, California State Parks, and the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District regarding existing e-bike regulations. Comments were received from the Transportation Agency of Monterey County, Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.
FINANCING:
There is no fiscal impact with this item.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
This action will help users combine the benefits of active transportation with inclusivity. The electric motor will help riders cover greater distances, making e-bikes more suitable for a wider range of cyclists, including those individuals with disabilities.
X Well-Being and Quality of Life
____ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
____ Safe and Resilient Communities
____ Diverse and Thriving Economy
Prepared by: Maribel Zendejas, Management Analyst II,831-755-5304
Reviewed by: Bryan Flores, Chief of Parks
Approved by: Mike Whilden, Deputy County Counsel
Approved by: Kelly L. Donlon, Assistant County Counsel, x 5313
Approved by: Randell Ishii, MS, PE, TE, PTOE, Director of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks
Attachments:
Attachment A - Chapter 14.12 Electric Bicycle Ordinance Amendment (clean)
Attachment B - Chapter 14.12 Electric Bicycle Ordinance Amendment (redline)