The resources on this page will help you learn about the city, county, and state regulations for operating micromobility vehicles (golf carts, e-bikes, e-motorcycles, and motorized scooters) in the city of Liberty Lake.
E- bikes are bicycles that can be assisted by an electric motor. Some e-bikes only provide electric assistance when the rider is pedaling. Others can propel the e-bike using electric power alone.
New e-bikes are required to have a label that includes their class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. (See RCW 46.37.690.) The labels are often located on the top tube or near the bottom bracket of the e-bike.
Class 1 e-bikes assist up to 20 m.p.h. and only provide electric assistance when the rider is pedaling. They can be ridden anywhere traditional bikes are permitted – including mixed-use trails, bike lanes, and roads – unless otherwise noted. Such notification includes anywhere signs prohibiting motorized vehicles are posted.
Class 2 e-bikes assist up to 20 m.p.h. but can propel the bike without pedaling. They can be ridden most places where traditional bikes are permitted – including mixed-use trails, bike lanes, and roads – unless otherwise noted. Such notification includes anywhere posted signs prohibit their use.
Class 3 e-bikes assist up to 28 m.p.h. and have additional rules. The rider must be 16 or older. Class 3 e-bikes are also generally prohibited on sidewalks and shared-use paths.
What is an e-motorcycle?
The sole power source for e-motorcycles is an electric motor. They often don't have moving pedals; instead, they have foot pegs, other brackets, or supports. Without moving pedals capable for propelling, this type of cycle is classified as a motorcycle. Any motor-driven cycle with a motor that exceeds 750 watts is classified as an electric motorcycle. All laws that apply to gas-powered motorcycles also apply to e-motorcycles. Many e-motorcycle makes and models are marketed as e-bikes and can travel much faster than a traditional e-bike.
Since electric motorcycles are motorcycles, a person must have a driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement to drive one, and are required to wear a helmet while driving. E-motorcycles are also considered illegal unless they are registered – just like all other motor vehicles. Electric motorcycles are required to be registered with the Washington State Department of Licensing and, in accordance with state law, the licensed operator must have insurance. This means for an electric motorcycle to be ridden on a road, it must have a license plate and meet the requirements of RCW 46.61.705.
What is a motorized scooter?
A motorized foot scooter (or e-scooter) is a device with handlebars that has no more than two wheels that are 10-inches or smaller in diameter. These scooters are designed to be stood or sat up by the operator, and are powered by an internal combustion engine or electric motor that is capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion.
Medical-related scooters are FDA Class II medical devices that are considered to be a type of powered wheelchair, and are not included in laws pertaining to e-scooters.
How do I report illegal or unsafe use of golf carts, e-bikes, or motorized scooters?
Phone the Liberty Lake Police Department during regular office hours at: 509-755-1140. For emergencies, phone 911. The Liberty Lake Police Department is located at 23127 E. Mission Ave. in Liberty Lake.