Rules for motorized scooters, electric bicycles & electric assisted bicycles
Overview
In January 2026 the Wake Forest Board of Commissioners updated regulations governing motorized scooters, electric bikes, and electric assisted bikes in an effort to prioritize safety and clarify where different devices may operate.
Under the updated regulations, motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and other motorized recreational devices are banned from sidewalks, which are designated primarily for pedestrian use.
These devices are allowed on Town greenways and in parks but limited to 10 mph. In addition, walkers and runners have the right-of-way.
The ordinance also requires operators under age 16 to wear properly fitted bicycle helmets when riding on public streets, sidewalks, parks or other Town property.
Updated Ordinance
During its regular meeting on January 20, 2026, the Board of Commissioners voted to approve an amendment to Chapter 30, Article III Section 30-1, and 30-90 thru 30-92 of the Code of Ordinances regarding motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and electric assisted bicycles, pedestrian right-of-way, and requirements for helmets.
The ordinance update (PDF, 327.24 KB) is intended to educate community members about the Town's rules for motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and electric assisted bicycles. It is also designed to allow riders the freedom to operate them safely.
The updated ordinance allows motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and electric assisted bicycles to operate on shared streets, greenways, parks, multi-use paths, and bicycle lanes – but not on sidewalks.
It also requires anyone under the age of 16 to wear a bicycle helmet when operating one of these vehicles.
Other highlights:
Motorized scooters must have a maximum speed of no greater than 15 mph.
Electric bicycles and electric assisted bicycles powered by motor only must have a maximum speed of no greater than 20 mph.
A motorized scooter or an electric bicycle may not operate on any road with a speed limit over 25 miles per hour.
No motorized scooter, electric bicycle, or electric assisted bicycle shall exceed a speed of 10 miles per hour while being operated on a greenway, in a park, or on a multi-use path.
Mopeds & Motorcycles
Mopeds
Wake Forest Police wish to remind community members that mopeds (motorized vehicles that travel between 20-30 mph) are regulated under state law and require drivers to be over the age of 16. In addition, such vehicles must be registered and insured and must not have a maximum speed of over 30 mph.
Motorcycles
Meanwhile, motorcycles (motorized vehicles that travel over 30 mph) are also regulated under state law, must be registered and insured, and require the driver to carry a motorcycle endorsement.
PLEASE NOTE: Anyone with an e-bike, scooter, or electric assisted bike powered by motor only that can exceed 20 mph may operate it on Town roads with speed limits that exceed 25 mph. In such instances, the device will be considered a moped and must follow state requirements.
Similarly, if the device can exceed 30 mph, then it will be considered a motorcycle and must follow state requirements.
