City of Sergeant Bluff
(SBA) - Over the last two years the Mayor and City Council have received numerous citizen concerns around the growing number of e-scooters and other small electric powered devices being used on streets, sidewalks and trails. These devices are generally used by the youth in the community and people have reported near-miss accidents with both vehicles and pedestrians. The public has been expressing the need for safety requirements and guidelines to educate families and protect our children from a worst-case scenario. The City Council is considering updates to Chapter 77 of the City Code, which would regulate motorized scooters, electric bicycles, and other personal electric vehicles (PEVs). These changes aim to improve safety, reduce reckless operation, to provide clear rules for riders and pedestrians, and give accountability to those who may violate.
What Devices Are Covered
The ordinance applies to*:
• E Scooters (Classes 1–4)
• Electric Bicycles (Classes 1–3 and off road/unclassified)
• Segways and similar devices
• Misc. mobility devices (electric skateboards, Onewheels, hoverboards, electric unicycles)
*Assistive mobility devices used by individuals with disabilities are not regulated under this chapter.
Minimum Age Requirements in Public Spaces
• Class 1 E Scooter (≤15 mph): 12+
• Class 2 E Scooter (15–20 mph): 14+
• Class 3 E Scooter (≤28 mph): 14+
• Class 4 High Performance E Scooter: 18+ (operation prohibited)
• Class 1 & 2 E Bikes: 14+
• Class 3 E Bike: 16+
• Segway & Misc. Mobility Devices: 16+
Recreation Complex
Most devices are prohibited at the Recreation Complex, including the walking trail, grass areas, ballfields, and pool/IBF parking lot.
Registration Requirement
All PEVs used on city sidewalks, streets, or trails must be registered. A city issued sticker must be attached to the device before use. Fees and procedures will be set by a City Council resolution.
Prohibited or Unsafe Operation
• Excessive speed
• Stunting, zigzagging, or racing
• Riding against traffic (where street use is allowed)
• Failing to yield to pedestrians
• Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Safety Requirements
• Helmet required for all riders under 18
• Front white light + rear red light required at night or in low visibility
• Functional brakes required on all devices
• Single rider only, unless the device is designed for more than one person
Penalties
Violations may result in:
• Municipal infractions or simple misdemeanors
• Fines ranging from $25 to $250, depending on the violation
• Impoundment for hazardous operation or repeat offenses within 12 months
• Parents or guardians may be cited if they knowingly allow a minor to violate the ordinance.
Public Input
The City Council will meet at 501 4th Street, on April 14th and April 28th at 5:30 pm, to consider these ordinance changes. The public is invited to attend and/or provide comments to cityhall@cityofsergeantbluff.com, and a full version of the proposed ordinance can be requested at City Hall.
