Anaheim Officials Weigh Tighter E-Bike Rules as Injuries Triple

Anaheim city leaders are debating whether to change how police manage electric bicycles following a sharp rise in local collisions.

The city council reviewed the department's recent strategy during a meeting on October 27. Police Chief Manny Cid stated that officers have issued fewer than a dozen e-bike tickets over the past two years. The department has prioritized educating children and families about safety over issuing citations during this period.

Accident data presented to the council shows a steep upward trend. E-bike related accidents numbered two in 2024. That figure rose to 16 in 2025. By late October 2026, officials recorded 38 such incidents in the current year.

Councilwoman Natalie Rubalcava argued that the situation has become a critical public safety matter. She noted that the danger extends to pedestrians and other drivers involved in crashes. Rubalcava requested that the police department begin tracking the number of verbal warnings issued to riders. She stated that the city must address the issue quickly to prevent more severe outcomes.

Chief Cid expressed concern that heavy enforcement could strain the relationship between police and residents. He suggested that aggressive ticketing might make parents feel targeted if their children are stopped while riding to school. He indicated the department will continue to monitor accident trends and return to the council if the number of collisions continues to climb.

Other city leaders proposed specific regulatory changes. Mayor Ashleigh Aitken suggested requiring riders under 16 to complete a safety course and obtain a permit. Police officials confirmed they are currently discussing this idea with local school districts. Councilman Carlos Leon asked if the department has a specific threshold for accidents that would trigger stricter enforcement measures.

The debate in Anaheim follows similar actions in neighboring cities. Santa Ana officials recently passed an ordinance that bans e-bikes on playgrounds and sets speed limits. That law also allows officers to impound e-bikes and issue citations to parents. Lake Forest council members are expected to vote on a similar measure on election night. That proposal would permit Orange County Sheriff deputies to impound bikes ridden in restricted areas or those capable of reaching 28 miles per hour. Lake Forest officials plan to use a towing company that would charge owners directly for removal costs rather than using city funds.

Councilwoman Natalie Meeks defended the current focus on education in her district of Anaheim Hills. She said the approach has worked well in her area. Meeks stated she is not opposed to e-bikes but is concerned about the speed and power of some models. She emphasized the need to teach riders about responsibility and the law.