Background:
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is re-examining electric assisted bicycles (e-assisted bike) regulations on agency property and along the ocean shore. Currently, e-assisted bikes are allowed on OPRD trails over eight feet in width and on the ocean shore where driving on beach by motor vehicles is allowed. With the popularity of e-assisted bike recreation increasing, the agency is finding that current rules do not clearly accommodate growing need and cause confusion among all visitors. The state also passed legislation that amended the definition of electric assisted bicycles and regulated into three different categories: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.
This rulemaking seeks to better serve Oregonians and all park visitors by managing safe recreation. The proposed rules balance access to public lands for diverse recreation options while protecting the state’s resources and existing recreation opportunities. Implementation of any changes will require more than rule enforcement and the agency is prepared to commit to an extensive education and outreach campaign.
The proposed changes contain:
Within the Division 10 General Park Area rules, the proposed changes seek to update the definition of electric assisted bicycle to match the statutory definition. It also seeks to expand on the allowable use of such devices and operational accessibility by persons with mobility disabilities. Language around safe operation and required caution was also amended to be stronger and clearer, particularly operation around other visitors, pets, children and equestrians. The proposed amendments also do away with the 8 feet width trail requirement for e-assisted bike use. Instead, the proposed rules will allow a person to safely ride e-assisted bikes on trails where other bicycles are allowed unless specifically restricted.
Within the Division 21 Ocean Shores rules, definitions were also updated to be consistent with statutory language. The proposed changes will also allow e-assisted bikes to be ridden outside of where drive on beach is allowed. E-assisted bikes can be ridden only on the wet sand on ocean shore state recreation areas except where specifically prohibited. Operation of e-assisted bicycles in dry sand and dune vegetation areas is strictly prohibited as are areas designated for snowy plover management and other resource protection areas.
Rule Advisory Committee Meetings:
*Watch Here*
- RAC 1: October 17th @ 11:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.
- RAC 2: October 31st @ 11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
- RAC 3: November 13th @ 11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.
- RAC 4: December 10th @ 11:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.
Public Comment Period:
Public comment is open from Feb 28th through April 1st at 5:00 PM.
Comments Received:
OPRD E Assisted Bike Comments 3/1/25 - 3/10/25
OPRD E Assisted Bike Comments 3/10/25 - 3/17/25
OPRD E Assisted Bike Comments 3/17/25 - 3/24/25
Public hearings:
- Attend a virtual public hearing Monday, Mar. 17 or Wednesday Mar. 26 at 5:30 p.m.
Individuals who require special accommodations to view the meetings should contact Jo Niehaus at least three days in advance of the meeting at jo.niehaus@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-580-9210.
To submit a comment please fill out the form below
Documents:
Pres Release: Rule Advisory Committee Press Release for first meeting
Press Release: Rule Advisory Committee Press Release for Meetings 2, 3 and 4
Commission Brief
DraftFiling-Ebikes.pdf
Draft Rule Language: Clean Copy
Draft Rule Language: Marked Copy
Press Release: Rule open for public comments 2/28/2025