Frequently Asked Questions

More kids are riding to school and around town on e-bikes, scooters, and other motorized vehicles. We’ve seen a rise in unsafe and illegal use, especially by underage riders, and many parents don’t know the difference between what’s legal and what’s not. Our goal is to keep riders, pedestrians, and drivers safe through education.

• E-bikes have working pedals and electric motors up to 750 watts, but they are limited to certain top speeds depending on their class.
• E-Motorcycles (including some dirt bikes and mini bikes) don’t have working pedals, often exceed 28 mph, and require a driver's license, registration, and insurance.
• If it looks and rides like a motorcycle, it’s not an e-bike.

• Class 1: Pedal assist, max 20 mph, no license or insurance required. Ages 8–14 must ride with adult supervision.
• Class 2: Throttle or pedal assist, max 20 mph, no license or insurance required. Ages 8–14 must ride with adult supervision.
• Class 3: Pedal or throttle assist, max 28 mph, helmet required under age 21, riders must be 16+.

Class 1, 2, & 3 e-bikes can be ridden on roads, sidewalks, and trails. E-motorcycles and off-road dirt bikes are not legal on roads, sidewalks, or trails in South Jordan.

No. E-motorcycles, dirt bikes, and unregistered mini bikes are not street legal for underage riders. They require licensing, registration, and insurance, and are only allowed in designated off-road areas. The Jordan School District also restricts the use of e-bikes on school campuses.

E-bikes can reach speeds of 20–28 mph and require the ability to react quickly, handle traffic situations, and control the bike safely. Kids under 8 generally don’t have the physical skills or judgment needed for safe riding.

• Toddlers and babies riding unsecured on e-bikes or scooters
• Kids weaving at high speeds through pedestrians on trails
• Teens riding e-motorcycles in neighborhoods without helmets or supervision
• Underage riders on powerful bikes going to school in traffic

If the vehicle is not street legal and is being operated illegally, insurance will not cover damages or injuries. Families may be responsible for paying all costs out of pocket, and parents may also be fined $150+.

• Check if the bike has pedals and what its top speed is.
• Class 1 and 2 e-bikes go up to 20 mph.
• Class 3 e-bikes go up to 28 mph and are for ages 16+.
• Anything without pedals or faster than 28 mph is not an e-bike—it’s an e-motorcycle.

• Instead of purchasing online, consider buying from a local bike shop where staff members are generally aware of local laws and the classes of bikes they sell.
• Before purchasing, search for the make and model of the e-bike you are considering online, and see what speed it goes. You can also generally find the class by searching online as well.
• You can always call your local police department. In South Jordan, you can call 801 446-4357 and ask to talk with an officer about e-bike safety.

The City's ordinance generally follows the State Code and was updated on August 19, 2025, to reflect the State Code better.

For reference:

• State Code
• City Code
  • Mini Bikes
  • E-Bikes