Full Notification

Dear Central Marin Families, 

Marin County has long been a leader in promoting healthy, active lifestyles—and we’re proud of how many students walk, bike, and now e-bike to school. But with the growing popularity of e-bikes has come a serious safety concern that we must address together. 

Since 2023, Marin Public Health has reported a sharp rise in e-bike injuries among youth, particularly those ages 10 to 15, who are five times more likely to require 911 services than adults. These injuries are not minor scrapes —emergency room physicians report they resemble serious injuries from motor vehicle accidents like internal bleeding and brain trauma, due to the higher speeds and weight of e-bikes. 

In response, jurisdictions across Marin have adopted new rules—authorized by last year’s state law AB 1778—that requires students to be 16 years old to ride a (Class 2) e-bike. The new law is in effect in Larkspur, Corte Madera, and San Anselmo, as well as many other Marin County municipalities. Riders under 16 years old can still ride Class 1 e-bikes. 

The 60-day warning period will be expiring next week. Please be aware that our officers will begin issuing citations, contacting parents, and towing illegal e-bikes. Please take the time and remind your children who ride e-bikes and bicycles to follow the rules of the road and practice safe riding. 

All legal e-bikes in California must have fully operable pedals and a motor that does not exceed 750 watts. There are three classes of legal e-bikes in California: 

• Class 1 only assists when you pedal and stops helping at 20mph. Legal for all ages. 

• Class 2 operates via pedal-assist or throttle and ceases to provide assistance at 20mph.. You must be 16+ to ride in Larkspur, Corte Madera, and San Anselmo.  Helmets are required for all ages. 

• Class 3 only assists when you pedal and stops helping at 28 mph. You must be 16+ to ride anywhere. 

Starting this new school year, please make sure your child rides a bike that is safe, legal and appropriate for their age and ability. We continue to strongly support cycling to and from school, and it is important that young riders be confident and experienced on a regular bike first before they start on an e-bike. E-bikes are faster, heavier, and require strong awareness and balance to ride safely.  

We know that safety education is a critical component of this effort. That’s why Marin officials have launched a countywide E-Bikers Club campaign to promote safe riding habits and help students and parents choose the right e-bike. Visit E-BikersClub.com for an animated video, safety tips, free Marin-focused posters, and a safety pledge. 

We’re proud to encourage biking as a sustainable, healthy way to get to school—and with your partnership, we can make it safe for everyone.