Woodstock clarifies e-bike rules for trails and downtown sidewalks
Officials distinguish between pedal-assist bikes and prohibited motorized devices to protect pedestrian safety.
Woodstock Community News| Woodstock, GA
The City of Woodstock issued a public advisory distinguishing between legal e-bikes and unauthorized "e-cycles," reminding residents that throttle-only devices are prohibited on trails and riders must dismount on downtown sidewalks.
According to the city, Georgia law defines a legal e-bike as a device equipped with pedals, a motor of 750 watts or less, and a maximum speed of under 20 miles per hour. Devices that do not meet these specific criteria, often marketed as "e-cycles" or resembling motorcycles, are not treated as bicycles and are subject to different access rules.
To maintain safety on shared paths, the city stated that motorized vehicles—including throttle-only e-bikes, motorized scooters, and motor-assisted recreational devices—are not permitted on Woodstock’s sidewalks or trails. While state law provides the definitions for the vehicles, local regulations determine where they are allowed to operate.
Officials also addressed safety in the high-traffic downtown district, noting that sidewalks in the core area are shared spaces. Riders are required to "walk their wheels" when navigating downtown sidewalks to protect pedestrians. Residents can find detailed diagrams and regulations regarding permitted devices at woodstockga.gov/e-bike-or-e-cycle.
