CaliforniaElectric bicycle classes, age, helmets, and path access
California defines three e-bike classes up to 750 watts. Class 3 operators must be at least 16 and operators and passengers must wear helmets; bicycle riders under 18 also have a helmet requirement. Class 3 path access is generally limited to paths adjacent to a roadway or locally permitted paths, and local authorities may restrict e-bike operation on paths. 2026 amendments also address Class 3 sales to minors and rear lighting/reflectors.
- Code
- Cal. Veh. Code §§ 312.5, 21200–21213, 21207.5, 24016 California Vehicle Code, Division 11, Article 4
- Applies to
- statewide
Santa Clara CountyE-bike speed, trail, helmet, and yielding rules in County parks
In County parks, e-bikes may operate only on park trails and roads where signs specifically allow them. The speed cap is 15 mph; riders under 18 must wear helmets parkwide, and adults must wear helmets on unpaved trails. Riders must yield and give warnings when passing. The ordinance was adopted January 9, 2018; this rule applies only to County facilities, not County streets.
- Code
- Santa Clara County Code § B14-42.3; Ord. NS-702.93 Santa Clara County Parks e-bike rule
- Applies to
- countywide
Los AltosBicycle and electric bicycle sidewalk and helmet rules
Within Los Altos, the ordinance covers e-bikes through its regulated mobility-device definitions. It prohibits riding bicycles and covered devices on sidewalks or pedestrian paths subject to stated safe-road exceptions; helmets are required for riders age 17 and younger.
- Code
- Los Altos Municipal Code ch. 8.32; Ord. 2025-537 Los Altos electric-bicycle ordinance
- Applies to
- city
- Effective
- Fri Aug 08 2025 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
