Ottawa, IL – The City of Ottawa has implemented new municipal rules regulating electric bicycles and scooters, bringing city codes in line with Illinois state law.
According to the Ottawa Police Department, the updated ordinance, which took effect on August 19, prohibits both e-bikes and e-scooters from being operated on downtown sidewalks. Instead, they are only allowed on roadways with posted speed limits of 25 mph or less, with LaSalle Street specifically excluded.
For e-bike riders, the minimum age is 16, while e-scooter riders must be at least 18 to operate on roadways. All riders are required to obey traffic laws, and police emphasized the importance of helmet use, situational awareness, and pedestrian safety.
The department noted that local regulations cannot be less restrictive than state law and stressed that education efforts are ongoing. Police are working with school resource officers, community partners, and local media to distribute safety materials and answer questions from residents.
“Our top priority is safety,” Ottawa Police said in a statement, encouraging parents to talk with their children about responsible riding. Officers reminded users to be mindful of crowded areas, walk their devices when necessary, and look both ways when approaching traffic.
For questions about the new rules, residents can contact the police department’s non-emergency line at 815-433-2131 or speak with school resource officers stationed in the community.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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