New ordinance bans off-highway vehicles on public roads while clarifying rules for e-bikes and other legal transportation options.

Commerce City has seen an increase in the use of electric bikes, electric motorcycles, and off-highway vehicles, such as ATVs and dirt bikes, on streets, sidewalks, and other public areas. To address growing safety concerns, the City Council recently adopted a new ordinance that clarified where certain vehicles can and cannot be used.

New ordinance now in effect

On March 2, City Council approved Ordinance 2761 which prohibits the operation of off-highway vehicles on all city streets, sidewalks, and highways. Under this ordinance:

– Off-highway vehicles (including ATVs and dirt bikes) may not be operated on any city street, sidewalk or highway
– Parents and guardians may be held responsible is minors under 18 are allowed to operate these vehicles in violation of the law
– Violations may result in a minimum $50 fine.

Off-highway vehicles are generally defined as motorized vehicles designed for recreational use of public roads, including ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) and dirt bikes.

This ordinance was adopted to improve safety for residents, pedestrians, and drivers, and to address concerns about the dangerous operations of these vehicles in public areas.

What about electric bikes and other legal options?

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) and other street-legal transportation options are still allowed and continue to be regulated by Colorado state law and the city’s traffic code.

Colorado law classifies e-bikes into three categories:

– Class 1: Pedal-assist up to 20 mph

– Class 2: Throttle* and pedal assist up to 20 mph

– Class 3: Faster pedal-assist up to 28 mph, no throttle

– Riders under 16 may not operate Class 3 e-bikes

– Riders under 18 must wear a helmet on Class e-bikes

*A throttle is a handlebar control (like a twist grip or thumb lever) that activates the motor to propel the bike forward without pedaling.

E-bikes remain a legal and encouraged transportation option when operated safely and in accordance with state and local regulations.

What this means now

With Ordinance 2761 now in effect, Commerce City has clearer authority to address unsafe riding behavior involving off-highway vehicles on public roads and sidewalks. The city encourages residents to:

– Use only street-legal vehicles on roadways
– Follow all traffic laws and safety guidelines
– Talk with youth about safe and legal riding practices

This ordinance is one step in a broader effort to promote safer streets across the community with additional education and safety initiatives to be shared in the future.

To report the illegal use of off-highway vehicles, please contact the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 303-288-1535.