Alert

By order of Sheriff Darren Weekly, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in place for unincorporated areas of Douglas County. Ordinance No. O-012-004 restricts open burning, the use of fireworks, portable fireplaces/fire pits and campfires in the unincorporated areas of Douglas County.

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Board of County Commissioners

Low-Powered Scooter and Off-Highway Vehicle Ordinance

On Tuesday, June 23, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners voted to approve an ordinance that establishes local regulations for the operation of low-powered scooters and off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on public roads, trails and other public property in unincorporated Douglas County.

Read the Ordinance

About the Ordinance

The ordinance comes in response to increasing safety concerns involving the operation of certain motorized vehicles that are not legally permitted to operate in the same manner as traditional bicycles. As electric-powered transportation options have become more common, local law enforcement and County officials have seen an increase in incidents involving unsafe or unlawful operation of these vehicles.

The ordinance is intended to promote public safety by establishing clear rules, penalties and enforcement mechanisms related to the operation of low-powered scooters and off-highway vehicles.

This ordinance does not regulate electric bicycles (e-bikes). Colorado law classifies e-bikes separately, and they would continue to be governed by existing state and local regulations.

Learn More

What Vehicles Are Regulated?

Low-Powered Scooters

Under Colorado law, a low-powered scooter is generally a self-propelled vehicle designed for roadway use with no more than three wheels and either:

  • An engine smaller than 50cc, or
  • An electric motor producing 4,476 watts or less

Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs)

Off-highway vehicles are motorized vehicles designed primarily for off-road recreational use, including many dirt bikes, mini bikes, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and similar vehicles.

 

Learn more about the different classifications of electric bicycles and motorized vehicles.

Key Provisions

Establishes Operating Requirements

  • Requires operators of low-powered scooters to possess a valid driver’s license when operating on public streets.
  • Requires low-powered scooters to be properly registered and insured when required by law.
  • Clarifies where off-highway vehicles may and may not be operated on public property.

Promotes Safe Riding Practices

  • Requires riders under age 18 to wear a helmet when operating a low-powered scooter or off-highway vehicle.
  • Establishes penalties for reckless and careless operation.
  • Prohibits fleeing or attempting to evade law enforcement.

Increases Accountability

  • Establishes penalties for unlawful operation of low-powered scooters and off-highway vehicles.
  • Creates parental responsibility provisions when minors unlawfully operate these vehicles.
  • Authorizes impoundment of vehicles involved in violations under certain circumstances.

Additional Resources

Castle Pines Ordinance Castle Rock Ordinance Highlands Ranch Resources Watch the DCSO News Conference