06/07/2026
Galena Police Department Public Safety Notice
Subject: E-Bike Rules, Sidewalk Bans, and Community Safety Guidelines
Dear Galena Residents, Business Owners, and Visitors,
The City of Galena Police Department wants to remind everyone about the rules for electric bicycles (e-bikes). We love seeing people enjoy our beautiful town. However, the rise of e-bikes has created safety issues on our busy downtown streets and walking paths.
To protect walkers, shoppers, and drivers, we are actively enforcing Illinois state traffic laws and local Galena ordinances:
1. No E-Bikes on Sidewalks
Under Galena City Code § 73.09, it is completely illegal to ride any bicycle on the sidewalk inside the Business District (including Main Street).
Illinois State Law also bans low-speed e-bikes from sidewalks statewide. All e-bikes must be ridden on the road or designated bike lanes.
2. Follow the Rules of the Road
E-bike riders must obey the exact same traffic laws as cars. You must stop at all stop signs and red lights.
You must ride with the flow of traffic, staying as far to the right as safe.
If you ride at night, your bike must have a white light on the front (visible from 500 feet) and a red reflector or light on the back.
3. Age Limits and Bike Classifications
Legal e-bikes must have working pedals and a motor under 750 watts. They are divided into three official classes:
Class 1 (Pedal-Assist Only): The motor only works when you pedal and cuts off at 20 mph. Riders must be 15 years of age or older to operate the motor.
Class 2 (Throttle-Assist): The bike has a throttle and can move without pedaling, cutting off at 20 mph. Riders must be 15 years of age or older to operate the motor.
Class 3 (High-Speed Pedal-Assist): The motor only works when you pedal but assists up to 28 mph. Riders must be 16 years of age or older to operate.
4. Upcoming Legal Changes for High-Speed Devices
The Illinois State Legislature has passed Senate Bill 3484. If signed by the Governor, any electric bike or "e-moto" capable of going over 28 mph will no longer be viewed as a bicycle. Operators will be required to have a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, title, and insurance. Unlicensed minors riding these high-speed vehicles can face heavy fines, and the vehicles may be impounded.
Our Enforcement Goal
Our officers will be stopping riders who violate these laws, especially those speeding through downtown pedestrian areas or ignoring traffic signs.
Parents, please make sure your children understand these limits before letting them ride.
Thank you for your help in keeping Galena safe and welcoming for everyone. For questions about local traffic safety rules, please visit the City of Galena Official Website.
Sincerely,
The Galena Police Department
311 N. Bench Street
Galena, IL 61036
Emergency: 911 | Non-Emergency: (815) 777-2131
