Ride Safely

Ride safely, Hilliard: Learn the laws of e-bikes, scooters, and motos

Safety is a two-way street, and that includes those operating electric bikes, scooters, skateboards, and similar micromobility vehicles in Hilliard.

Regardless of what you’re riding, Chapter 373 of the City Code requires operating these vehicles in a safe and non-hazardous manner that does not endanger anyone, including yourself.

This guide provides an overview of the current rules and regulations that apply to micromobility devices in Hilliard.

Types of E-bikes

While most laws apply to both bicycles and e-bikes, there are some regulations specific to certain types of e-bikes. Under Ohio law, there are three classes of electric bicycles:

Class 1 electric bicycle: A bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and stops providing assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 mph.
Class 2 electric bicycle: A bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts that may provide assistance whether or not the rider is pedaling and stops providing assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 mph.
Class 3 electric bicycle: A bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour.

What Isn’t an E-bike?

E-bikes should not be confused with motorized bicycles (commonly called mopeds), even though both are considered vehicles under Ohio law.

City Code currently defines a “low-speed micromobility device” as a device that weighs less than 100 pounds, has handlebars, is propelled by an electric motor or human power, and generally does not go over 20 mph with the electric motor.

Electric scooters are one of the most popular types of micromobility devices.

Where Can I Ride?

Under current state and local law:

E-bikes (Class 1 and 2) may be operated on streets (except for freeways) and shared-use paths.
E-bikes (Class 3) are also allowed on streets (except for freeways) and shared-use paths. Riders must be at least 16 years old.
Bicycles and e-bikes may be ridden on sidewalks if the motor is not engaged.
Electric scooters are allowed on streets with a posted speed limit up to 25 mph , shared use paths, and sidewalks.
Mini motorcycles (motos) are not permitted in parks, sidewalks, shared-use paths or streets.
All e-bikes, scooters, and motos are prohibited in Hilliard parks, including Hilliard’s Station Park and First Responders Park in Downtown Hilliard. Riders must remain in the designated bike lanes when traveling through these areas and park their devices in the designated bike racks.

Age & Helmet Requirement

Riders must be at least 16 years of age to operate a Class 3 e-bike.
Ohio law requires anyone riding a class 3 e-bike to wear a helmet.

Safety Reminders

Riders must follow basic traffic rules
Yield to pedestrians
When riding at night or in low-visibility conditions, Ohio law requires using lights.
Keep close to the right side of the road
Give an audible signal when passing
Stay alert and avoid distractions

Unsafe Riding

The City of Hilliard Division of Police may address riders who are operating a bicycle, e-bike, or other mobility device in a reckless or unsafe manner. This includes riding:

- In prohibited areas
- Without maintaining control
- Without regard for pedestrians, cyclists or motorists

Parents/Guardians: Please encourage minor children to slow down, maintain a safe distance, and yield to pedestrians and others on sidewalks and shared use paths. To report concerns about rider behavior, contact Hilliard police’s non-emergency line at 614-876-7321.

Feedback and Next Steps

The City recently updated signage at Hilliard Station Park and First Responders Park regarding micromobility devices.

These devices may not be operated within the park, but may be operated within the bicycle lane that crosses through HSP.

Additionally, the City is evaluating proposed code changes to help streamline and simplify definitions, responsibilities, and enforcement around micromobility devices. Proposed changes to Chapter 373 include:

Requiring helmets for any minor operating any micromobility device, including bikes/e-bikes, scooters, mopeds, etc.
Clarifying that parents/guardians can be held responsible if their minor children violate Chapter 373
Granting authority for Police to impound any micromobility device operated in violation of Chapter 373, and requiring parents/guardians to claim impounded vehicles improperly operated by minors
The State of Ohio is also considering legislative changes to this issue. Read more about HB948 House Bill 948 – hyperlink to https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb948

Ride safely, Hilliard: Learn the laws of e-bikes, scooters, and motos

Safety is a two-way street, and that includes those operating electric bikes, scooters, skateboards, and similar micromobility vehicles in Hilliard.

Regardless of what you’re riding, Chapter 373 of the City Code requires operating these vehicles in a safe and non-hazardous manner that does not endanger anyone, including yourself.

This guide provides an overview of the current rules and regulations that apply to micromobility devices in Hilliard.