Sartell, Minnesota Police Eye E-Bike and Scooter Ordinance After Surge in Complaints

Last Updated on September 1, 2025 by Kristina

Complaints about young riders on e-bikes and scooters are piling up in Sartell, Minnesota. Police say the number of calls has exploded, with residents reporting kids riding dangerously on roads, trails, and sidewalks.

Now, city leaders are looking at creating a local ordinance to set clearer rules.

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Police Ask Parents to Step In

Police Chief Brandon Silgjord says many parents don’t realize what state law already requires. His goal is education, not punishment.

“As a police force, we’re not looking to try to be the fun police,” Silgjord told KNSI News. “We want kids to enjoy these devices. We’re really trying to educate parents on the rules and keep everyone safe.”

Minnesota Laws on E-Bikes and Scooters

The state already has strict rules in place:

Scooters (Minn. Stat. §169.225)

Riders must be at least 12 years old
Helmet required for anyone under 18
One rider only — no passengers
No sidewalks, except when entering/exiting property
Must stay near the right-hand curb unless turning or avoiding hazards
Headlight and taillight required when riding at night

E-Bikes

Riders must be at least 15 years old
Must follow the same traffic laws as bicycles
Cannot be modified to exceed their intended top speed
Three classes of e-bikes defined:
- Class 1: pedal-assist up to 20 mph
- Class 2: throttle or pedal up to 20 mph
- Class 3: pedal-assist up to 28 mph (no throttle allowed in Minnesota)
Allowed wherever bikes can go, unless local rules restrict them

Where Do They Belong?

Silgjord says one of the biggest challenges is figuring out where scooters and e-bikes should be allowed. Sidewalks, trails, and roadways all raise safety questions. State law sets some limits, but cities like Sartell can add their own rules for extra clarity.

Minnesota’s Wider Concerns

Sartell isn’t alone. Across Minnesota, police and residents are reporting similar issues:

In South Lake Minnetonka, officers say some kids ride recklessly and even ignore police orders to stop — which can escalate to felony-level charges.
In Hastings, city leaders are drafting an ordinance that bans e-bikes on sidewalks and limits trail speeds to 15 mph.
A statewide concern is the rise of “e-moto” bikes — powerful electric bikes that look like mopeds and can exceed 40 mph. These do not qualify as e-bikes under Minnesota law, but they’re showing up on trails and causing conflicts.

This wider context explains why Sartell is moving quickly.

What’s Next for Sartell

The city has handed the issue to a committee. That group will draft a possible ordinance by the end of the year. If approved, new rules could take effect in 2026.

Tips for Parents and Young Riders

If you’re in Sartell — or anywhere in Minnesota — here are some quick tips to stay safe and within the law:

✅ Check the age rules: 12+ for scooters, 15+ for e-bikes.
✅ Always wear a helmet: required under 18, smart for everyone.
✅ Ride in the right place: roads, bike paths, or trails — but stay off sidewalks unless allowed.
✅ Light up at night: both headlight and taillight are required after dark.
✅ Respect the speed: don’t modify scooters or bikes to go faster than the law allows.
✅ Parents — talk to your kids: many complaints come from young riders who may not know the rules.

By following these simple steps, riders can enjoy e-bikes and scooters safely — without putting themselves or others at risk.

Join the Conversation

Do you think Sartell should pass new e-bike and scooter rules, or are the state laws enough? ?⚡?

? Share your thoughts in the comments below — and subscribe for more updates on e-bike laws, trends, and safety tips from around the country.

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Kristina

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Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.

Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.

When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.

Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.