Woodstock holds public meeting on e-bike rules
Mayor and Council will hear public input Nov. 10 on where e-bikes should be allowed around town.
Woodstock Community News | Woodstock, GA
The City of Woodstock will take public comment on e-bike use during its regular Mayor and Council meeting Monday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m., as officials consider whether and how to update local rules for streets, sidewalks and trails. The discussion follows a staff presentation at an Oct. 20 work session that reviewed how other cities regulate e-bikes and flagged growing safety concerns.
Community Development Director Melissa Sigmund told council members that “e-bikes are becoming a source of concern in cities across the country due to the use of sidewalks by e-bike riders, dangerous trick or stunt riding, and collisions with pedestrians and vehicles.” City staff outlined Georgia’s three e-bike classifications: Class 1 (pedal-assist up to 20 mph), Class 2 (throttle-assisted up to 20 mph) and Class 3 (pedal-assist with optional throttle, up to 28 mph).
Under Georgia Code § 40-6-144, bicycles and e-bikes generally are not allowed on sidewalks except where a local ordinance permits children 12 and under to ride. Council members discussed whether to affirm that exception, limit e-bikes in areas such as the Downtown Entertainment District, and clarify rules for sidewalks and multi-use paths.
City Manager Jeff Moon emphasized the need for clear guidance: “We need to make sure residents understand where e-bikes are allowed and what’s considered safe and legal.” No timeline for drafting or adopting ordinance changes was provided; the Nov. 10 meeting is intended to gather resident feedback before next steps.
Residents may attend the meeting in The Chambers at City Center, 8534 Main Street, and share comments during the public discussion. Additional details were not provided in the city’s announcement.
