Storm Lake wants safer streets — but state law may be standing in the way.
The city council spent another work session Monday night trying to figure out how far they can go in regulating e‑bikes, e‑scooters, mini‑bikes and other small electric vehicles that have surged in popularity around town.
Mayor Meg McKeon said the public pressure is impossible to ignore.
Police Chief Chris Cole told the council he and city administrators have met with the city attorney to review what Storm Lake can legally regulate.
That means Storm Lake cannot set its own helmet requirements or broad age limits for most electric‑assist devices. Under Iowa law, only Class 3 e‑bikes — those capable of reaching 28 miles per hour — require riders to be at least 16 years old. There is no age limit for e‑scooters, and cities cannot override that.
Still, Cole said there are areas where the city can act. He encouraged the council to consider a model ordinance that targets unsafe riding behaviors officers see regularly — things like carrying passengers on single‑rider devices, using phones while riding, stunt riding, failing to use lights after dark and ignoring signaling rules. He also recommended prohibiting riding on playgrounds, sports courts and downtown sidewalks, where fast‑moving devices pose risks to pedestrians.
But Cole cautioned that even the best ordinance won’t solve everything.
McKeon questioned why other Iowa cities appear to be adopting stricter rules.
Enforcement also remains a major concern. Cole said officers are doing what they can.
McKeon said without any ordinance, police have no recourse when someone is hit or injured.
Council members agreed that nothing will change this summer, but they want to keep moving forward. McKeon said it’s important to continue shaping an ordinance and to make sure state lawmakers hear Storm Lake’s concerns.
Cole noted Storm Lake isn’t alone.
The council is urging residents to attend a public forum at 5:30 p.m. on June 29 at the Chautauqua Park shelterhouse, where input will be gathered before ordinance language is drafted.
