Peosta considers street bans, fines for e-bikes and motorized scooters

PEOSTA, Iowa - Parents in Peosta could soon face steep fines or lose their children's electric bikes to a city impound lot under a proposed ordinance cracking down on e-bikes and motorized scooters, KCRG reports. The Peosta City Council voted Tuesday evening to set a formal public hearing for Ordinance 2026-07 on Nov. 24. The measure introduces broad new operating limits, impoundment options, and parental liability for young riders across the city. Under the proposed rules, low-speed e-bikes, motorized scooters, and micromobility devices would be banned entirely from riding in the roadway on 10 heavily traveled streets, including Burds Road, Peosta Street, and Thunder Valley Drive. The ordinance also outlaws their operation in the City Hall and Peosta Community Centre parking lots during weekday morning drop-off and afternoon pickup hours for the neighboring elementary school. Speed limits on city sidewalks and public trails would be capped at 10 mph. Riders would also be prohibited from performing stunts such as wheelies, racing in the street, or operating devices while holding a mobile phone. City leaders say safety concerns around young riders prompted the crackdown, as more high-speed devices appear on residential streets and walking paths. One council member told KCRG that while older drivers know to look out for traffic hazards, young children often do not realize the danger. If approved, the ordinance would hold parents and legal guardians legally responsible if their minor children violate the regulations. Violations carry a $125 fine for a first offense and up to $750 for repeat offenses within two years. The city could also impound bikes for five to 30 days in lieu of fines. The public hearing will take place at 6 p.m. on Nov. 24 at Peosta City Hall.