New Mesa laws OK electric scooters, bikes in city parks. They also limit use for kids

The Mesa City Council approved new ordinances that approve electric bikes and scooters for use in city parks.

Two new Mesa laws allow Class 1 and 2 e-bikes and e-scooters to ride alongside pedestrians on all sidewalks and shared bicycle paths.

Councilmember Alicia Goforth says that many residents were unaware of the current park regulations.

“This is the first step, once we pass the ordinance it's going to be about educating, it's going to be about signage,” Goforth said. “I would agree most people don’t follow the City Council meetings and aren’t going to know that there’s a new ordinance.”

Goforth said the illegal use of electric bikes and scooters was primarily an issue among minors unauthorized to use the vehicles rather than adults.

Councilmember Dorean Taylor said outlawing the electric vehicles in the past did not stop illegal riding.

“This is such a new issue that Mesa is having. And it’s not just Mesa — there’s other municipalities that are experiencing this as well,” Taylor said.

The ordinances require a 5 mph speed limit and mandatory helmet requirement for riders under 18 years old. Both laws will take effect on Feb. 11.