Holly Springs officials pass new electric bike ordinance, fines for riders and parents

HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. (WNCN) — One Wake County town looks to double down on pedestrian safety as more and more people use electric and motor bicycles to get around.

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Holly Springs approved a new ordinance last week to differentiate between electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, and electric motorbikes, also known as e-motos. Town officials said the ordinance will take effect June 1 and includes fines of up to $500 and a possible misdemeanor charge if not followed properly.

“The goal was twofold,” town officials said online. “Expand multimodal transportation options for residents by allowing e-bikes on greenways and sidewalks while strengthening regulations on e-bike/e-moto usage in Town.”

Town officials noted the following as key distinctions between the two:

These distinctions are to advise riders on what paths or roads to use. According to town officials, e-bikes are allowed on greenways, sidewalks, multiuse paths, side paths and walkways. Meanwhile, town officials said e-motos are only allowed on town streets.

Also, the distinctions include guidance on what’s required of riders before hopping on these bikes and riding in Holly Springs. For those using e-bikes, no license, registration or insurance is required to operate one. All three are required for an e-moto vehicle. Riders of an e-moto vehicle must be 16 years or older and wear a helmet. Those wishing to use an e-bike can be of any age, and those under 16 must wear a helmet.

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“We have had numerous incidents in Holly Springs where middle-aged students have been discovered riding on major town roadways in heavy traffic on e-motos,” said Holly Springs Police Chief Paul Liquorie in a PSA video. “This is not only illegal, but it’s incredibly dangerous.”

If anyone violates the Holly Springs town ordinance for these electric vehicles, they can face the following:

• Written warning for the first offense
• $250 for the second offense
• $500 for the third offense and those after
• An e-bike or e-moto can be impounded
• Parents can be found guilty of a class 3 misdemeanor for no proof of insurance, registration or a valid license

“Do not let fun or convenience put your child at risk,” said Chief Liquorie. “Follow the law and help us keep your kids safe, because safety starts with you.”

The Town of Holly Springs encourages anyone who sees people behaving recklessly on an e-bike or e-moto, or any other concerns or questions related to the new ordinance, to call the non-emergency number at 919-557-9111.

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