(KIWA Staff Photo)
Hull, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — As electronic bikes and scooters grow in popularity, local governments throughout Sioux County are evaluating how to improve safety with the motorized devices.
The City of Hull has chosen to focus on public outreach and education instead of passing new ordinances for now.
E-Scooter Safety and Education
During a recent meeting, the Hull City Council discussed whether to modify the town’s existing bicycle ordinance to include e-scooters and e-bikes. The council ultimately agreed new regulations aren’t necessary at this time. Hull City Administrator Heidi Kramer says the city is instead partnering with the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office and the local school resource officer to coordinate digital and direct outreach aimed at teaching parents and children how to safely operate the vehicles.
Other Sioux County Communities
Other communities in Sioux County are using different approaches:
- Sioux Center — Regulates e-bikes by class. Anything over 750 watts of power or capable of speeds above 28 mph isn’t allowed on trails. Bikes without pedals are treated like dirt bikes or motorcycles and must be registered and driven on roads.
- Orange City — Prohibits e-scooters on sidewalks in parts of the downtown business district.
- Rock Valley — Taking a similar approach to Hull, emphasizing education first and holding off on new ordinances.
- Hawarden — Has e-scooter rules that restrict scooters from certain streets and portions of the business district except when crossing intersections. Violations can result in scooters being impounded for up to 30 days.
