Broomfield police propose rules for off-highway vehicles and mini-motorcycles
The proposed changes would extend careless-driving rules to trails, parks and other public areas, while excluding human-powered vehicles and Class 1 and 2 e-bikes.
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Broomfield police are proposing code changes to clarify where off-highway vehicles and mini-motorcycles may be ridden and extend careless-driving rules to trails, parks and other public areas. The proposal would not restrict human-powered bicycles or scooters, or Class 1 and 2 e-bikes.
Police said the city’s existing off-highway-vehicle rules are outdated and contradictory, making enforcement difficult. The proposed changes would clarify vehicle categories and where they can be operated. Police described the intended standard as requiring riders to use due regard for pedestrians and other trail users, with enforcement focused on careless or reckless behavior rather than routine speed checks on paths.
At an Oct. 20 City Council study session, police reported more than 68 complaints and 12 crashes involving electric vehicles since January 2025. Three crashes involved a Class 1, 2 or 3 e-bike; police later said one Class 3 e-bike rider involved in a crash was not at fault. Police said complaints often described vehicles in broad terms, preventing a reliable breakdown by vehicle type. The study-session video records the figures and discussion.
The staff memo in the council packet also describes the proposed exclusions for human-powered vehicles and Class 1 and 2 e-bikes. Police said Class 3 e-bikes generally follow state rules barring them from sidewalks and trails unless a local government allows otherwise. Council members discussed a possible local exception, but did not establish one at the session.
Police said the proposal would address adult accountability when minors violate the rules, including allowing juvenile violations to be brought to municipal court with a parent appearing. The city attorney said a judge could impose a penalty of up to $2,650 per charge and could consider community service as an alternative or part of the penalty. That is a possible maximum under the proposed approach, not a fine set by the council.
Impoundment remains under consideration. The city attorney said any process would need to provide due process, and staff was exploring approaches for unlawful ATVs or mini-motorcycles on roads or sidewalks. The discussion did not settle when or how a vehicle could be impounded.
The study session was informational: council did not vote on an ordinance, and no date for a formal decision was identified.