E-Bike Guidelines
New E‑Bike and Electric Scooter Guidelines Under Our Safe Routes to School Program
New E‑Bike and Electric Scooter Guidelines Under Our Safe Routes to School Program![]()
New E‑Bike and Electric Scooter Guidelines Under Our Safe Routes to School Program
As the new school year approaches, Washington Unified School District is sharing an important update to Regulation 5142.2, the Safe Routes to School Program, including new guidelines for e-bikes and scooters on school campuses, which will go into effect on the first day of school, August 5, 2026
These updates are intended to support student safety while continuing to encourage walking, biking, and other active modes of travel to and from school.
Key Highlights of the New Policy include:
- Clearly defined electric bicycle classifications (per California Vehicle Code §312.5 and CHP guidance).
- Elementary and middle school campuses prohibited usage.
- Elementary and middle school campuses allowable usage.
- Helmet and safety requirements.
- Behavior, speed, and traffic safety expectations.
- Potential consequences for violations.
Families are encouraged to review these expectations with their students before the first day of school, including the type of device they use, helmet requirements, and safe riding behavior near campus.
Our goal, in partnership with you, is not to discourage students from using bikes, scooters, or e‑bikes, but to ensure that these transportation choices are as safe as possible for everyone.
If you have questions about how these updates apply to your child, please contact your school office or the WUSD Student Services Office at (916) 375‑7600 ext 1370.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions![]()
Frequently Asked Questions
What is changing?
WUSD has updated Regulation 5142.2 under its Safe Routes to School Program to clarify expectations for student use of e-bikes and scooters on and around school campuses.
Why is the district making this change?
The update is intended to improve student safety while still supporting walking, biking, and other active modes of transportation to school. The district’s program is designed to promote safety awareness, reduce hazards, and encourage responsible transportation choices.
What is a Class 1 e-bike?
A Class 1 electric bicycle provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and stops providing assistance at 20 mph.
What is a Class 2 e-bike?
A Class 2 electric bicycle may be used to propel the bike without pedaling and stops providing assistance at 20 mph.
What is a Class 3 e-bike?
A Class 3 electric bicycle provides pedal assistance only and stops providing assistance at 28 mph. Under California law, operators must be at least 16 years old and wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet. Class 3 e-bikes are not permitted on elementary or middle school campuses under WUSD policy.
Are electric scooters allowed on elementary and middle school campuses?
No. Elementary and middle school students may not operate or store electronic scooters on district campuses.
Are Class 2 e-bikes allowed on elementary and middle school campuses?
No. Elementary and middle school students may not operate or store Class 2 electric bicycles on district campuses.
What is allowed on elementary and middle school campuses?
Only Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes and nonmotorized scooters may be brought onto and stored on campus, and only in designated areas identified by the principal or designee.
Do students have to wear helmets?
Yes. Students who bicycle to school or use skateboards, skates, or nonmotorized scooters must wear helmets in accordance with California Vehicle Code 21212.
What happens if a student does not follow the rules?
Students who violate these provisions may be subject to disciplinary action consistent with district policy, administrative regulation, the California Education Code, and California Vehicle Code.
How can families help?
Families can help by checking what type of device their child rides, making sure helmets fit properly, reviewing safe riding expectations, and reminding students to follow all school rules when arriving at and leaving campus.
Where can families learn more?
Families can review Regulation 5142.2: Safe Routes to School Program and watch for additional school-site information about designated parking or storage areas before the start of school.
