Ask CITYVIEW

What are the rules and regulations surrounding e-bikes and electric scooters in Des Moines?

You have likely been living under a rock if you haven’t seen a teenager zooming through your neighborhood or side streets on an e-bike or electric scooter. Residents in Des Moines and the metro have seen them in greater numbers this summer and are curious about the rules and laws surrounding them.

First, there are the differences between e-bikes. Presently, e-bikes are legal to ride anywhere bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are defined as having a motor less than or equal to 750 watts and must not have a top speed greater than 28 mph. They are legal on streets, trails and most sidewalks. E-bikes are also split into three different classes. Class One, Two and Three. The main differences are that Class One and Two bikes reach a top assisted speed of 20 mph, while Class Three bikes’ top speed is 28 mpg. Class One and Two need to follow the posted speed limit; Class Three needs to follow the posted speed limit, or 20 mph. Class Three bikes are the only ones required to have a speedometer and have a minimum age requirement of 16. 

E-scooters, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation, must also be 750 watts or less; must follow the posted speed limit; and can be ridden in the bike lane, vehicle lane, sidewalks and multi-use bike and pedestrian trails according to local rules and on DNR-designed park trails. They do not have a minimum rider age. 

Local municipalities have begun developing their own regulations. Above all else, find out what your local rules are and follow them. And wear a helmet. 

How many Flock cameras are being used in the metro? 

Flock cameras have made national headlines for many reasons. Increased vandalism to security cameras. Misuse by law enforcement. Communities around the metro ending their contracts with Flock Safety. 

According to websites FlockHopper and DeFlock, roughly 230 cameras are being used in the Des Moines metro as of press time. With Waukee’s announcement that the city is ending its partnership with Flock Safety, their 11 cameras will be shut down. Indianola will also be shutting down their eight cameras. And those may just be the beginning. ♦