Effective May 21, 2026, Town Code, that was adopted through Ordinance 890-26, outlines new updates related to the use of motorized devices, including prohibited use in parks, hands-free device use, speed limits, and impound guidelines. These changes are intended to reduce dangerous situations and enhance the safety of riders and the community in parks, trails and other public spaces.
“Unfortunately, we’ve seen an increase in unsafe situations related to e-bikes and other motorized devices,” stated Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley. “The action at the May 20 meeting is in response to our resident concerns and an effort to find a balance of safety, personal responsibility and maintaining our high quality of life. This is something that communities are grappling with throughout the region and beyond. Each community has unique considerations, and in turn, must take an approach that will work for their community. As a council, we are trying to balance the benefits of these types of devices with their intended use, while also providing more clear guidelines for improper use and enforcement, when necessary.”
Motorized devices include electric bicycles, electric miniature scooters, motorized gas-powered bicycles, motorized play vehicles, motorized skateboards, and micromobility devices. It does not include devices used for accessibility, including but not limited to a motorized wheelchair. For a comprehensive definition, visit 11-1-1 of the Town code.
Devices must continue to be operated in a reasonable and safe manner, obey all traffic laws, and yield to pedestrians and equestrians. The approved ordinance establishes new operational restrictions for the use of these devices throughout Town owned property and public spaces.
New Park Operation Restrictions
To ensure safety in parks and shared public spaces, certain electric and motorized devices can be used.
- Electric bikes, other power-driven mobility devices and motor vehicles are not allowed in Town parks, including sidewalks within the park.
- Riders may still use designated roadways, parking lots, or multi-use paths to directly enter or leave a park where permitted.
- Devices may be walked or carried to park amenities from approved access areas.
- Recreational riding inside parks, racing, stunt riding, or general cruising is not allowed.
Hands-Free Device Use
Riders are prohibited from holding a cellphone or other wireless device while operating a bicycle or motorized mobility device. Hands-free and voice operated devices are allowed.
New 15 MPH Speed Limit
The ordinance establishes a speed limit of 15 miles per hour for sidewalks, multi-use trails, parking lots, and bicycle lanes. The speed limit applies even if signs are not posted.
Impound and Release for High-Risk Violations
The ordinance creates a process for removing and impounding devices when riders create a serious safety risk to themselves or the community.
Examples include:
- Reckless or dangerous riding
- Fleeing from the police
- Blocking traffic or pedestrians
- Riding in prohibited areas around pedestrians or equestrians
Impound process:
- Minimum of 72-hour hold
- Riders must complete a safety course provided by QCPD before the device is released
- If rider is under 18, a parent or guardian must also attend the safety course
“As we have said before, we are not trying to take away fun or prevent responsible riding,” stated Chief Randy Brice. “But we cannot tolerate reckless behavior that puts riders, pedestrians, equestrians, families and our community at risk. We continue to see an increase in dangerous riding, large disruptive groups, riders ignoring traffic laws, and situations where residents simply do not feel safe using parks, trails, or public spaces. These updates are about ensuring safety and making sure everyone can safely enjoy all that our community has to offer.”
For more information about motorized devices on Town property, visit the motorized devices page on the Town’s website. To report prohibited devices or violations of the Town code, please call QCPD’s non-emergency number at 480-358-3500; dial 9-1-1 in an emergency.
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Media Contact:
Jennifer Lamis, Public Information Officer
480-416-8509