Purpose:
This regulation is designed to promote the safe and responsible use of e-bikes and electric mobility devices within the District of Squamish, ensuring alignment with recent provincial updates to the Motor Vehicle Act and supporting the district’s goals for sustainable transportation and public safety.
Definitions:
- E-bike (Motor Assisted Cycle): A bicycle with up to three wheels equipped with a motor of 500W or less, providing assistance up to a maximum speed of 32 km/h as per the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
- Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs): Electrically powered devices such as e-scooters, electric skateboards, and similar vehicles designed for individual transport within non-road areas of Squamish.
Permitted Areas of Use:
- Roads and Bike Lanes: E-bikes are allowed on all municipal roadways and designated bike lanes within Squamish, following local traffic rules.
- Multi-use Trails and Pathways:
- Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist without throttle) are allowed on shared-use trails such as those in Squamish’s popular recreation areas.
- Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes, which use throttle-based or higher-speed assistance, are restricted to hard-surfaced, designated bike paths and paved trails.
- Sidewalks and Pedestrian Areas: E-bikes and PMDs are strictly prohibited from sidewalks and pedestrian-only areas in downtown Squamish and other densely populated zones unless otherwise indicated by signage.
Speed Limits:
- Bike Lanes and Roads: Maximum speed for e-bikes is 32 km/h.
- Shared Trails (e.g., Squamish Estuary, Smoke Bluffs Park): Maximum speed of 20 km/h.
- Pedestrian-Critical Areas: No e-bike or PMD access allowed.
Safety Equipment:
- Helmets: Helmets must be worn at all times by e-bike and PMD users, in compliance with BC’s provincial safety regulations.
- Lights and Reflectors: E-bikes operating after dusk or in low-visibility conditions must have a functioning front light, rear light, and reflective devices visible from 150 meters, especially on Squamish’s rural roads and pathways.
- Signage Compliance: Users must follow all posted signs indicating permitted areas, speed limits, and restrictions.
Enforcement:
Squamish RCMP and municipal bylaw officers will enforce these regulations. Violations such as exceeding speed limits or riding in prohibited areas may result in fines, penalties, or confiscation of devices. Specific fine amounts will be outlined in an updated Squamish bylaw.
Safety and Education Campaign:
- Launch: The District will begin a community safety campaign in Fall 2024, in collaboration with Squamish RCMP, focusing on responsible e-bike usage.
- Objectives: Promote helmet use, compliance with speed limits, and proper etiquette in shared spaces through workshops, online resources, and public programs aimed at residents and tourists alike.
- Spring 2025 Initiative: Squamish will further expand community engagement by hosting workshops to address concerns over interactions between pedestrians, cyclists, and e-bike users, while also encouraging the adoption of e-bikes as a sustainable option for commuting in and around Squamish.
Consultation and Legislative Alignment:
The District of Squamish is working closely with the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, including discussions at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) conference. These talks will ensure Squamish’s regulations remain consistent with ongoing provincial pilot projects and any upcoming legislative changes regarding e-mobility.
