E-bikes
Electric power assisted bicycles (e-bikes) are a fun and efficient way to get around, but when misused, they can pose serious risks not only to riders, but to those around them.
The City is taking swift, proactive steps to provide guidance on safe riding practices and responsible road sharing for e-bike users. On this page, you’ll find the latest information on state and local laws relating to e-bikes, practical safety tips, parental guidance tools and details on the City’s e-bike Safety Task Force.
The City has received numerous complaints about e-bike riders being careless and minors exhibiting dangerous behavior. In 2025, there have already been several serious crashes involving e-bikes.
Virginia E-bike Laws
City and State Code provide various regulations for the many different types of wheeled devices. This guide aims to lessen any confusion about regulations pertaining to e-bikes. E-bikes are vehicles that travel on not more than three wheels and are equipped with pedals that allow for propulsion by human power, a seat for a rider, and an electric motor with an input of no more than 750 watts.
According to Virginia Code § 46.2-904.1, e-bikes and e-bike operators are afforded all the rights and are subject to all the duties of bicycles and bicyclists. There’s no licensing, registration, title or insurance required.
Virginia Recognizes three classes of e-bikes:
- Class 1: pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph
- Class 2: Throttle-assist up to 20 mph (with or without pedaling)
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph; requires a speedometer, and riders must be 14 or older, with helmets mandated for operators and passengers
- Any e-bike exceeding the above definitions (e.g., motor over 750 watts, or exceeding class speed limits with or without pedaling/throttle) may be considered a different type of wheeled device and subject to stricter regulations, potentially as a:
- Electric moped: Motor between 750-1500 watts, operates below 35 mph. Requires DMV registration, rider must be at least 16, and a helmet is mandatory. Operators must wear a face shield, safety glasses or goggles, unless the moped has a safety glass or windshield.
- Off-road motorcycle: Subject to specific regulations, typically not allowed on public roads or bicycle paths.
- Motorcycle: Capable of speeds above 35 mph and on no more than three wheels. Subject to full motorcycle regulations (Class M license, DOT-approved helmet, etc.)
Virginia Beach Rules of the Road
Baseline Rules for Cyclists
E-bikes are generally considered vehicles to the same extent as traditional bicycles and share similar rights and responsibilities. As in the rest of the Commonwealth, bicyclists – including e-bike riders – must obey traffic laws:
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Ride with traffic.
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Obey signals.
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Stop before entering roads.
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Use hand signals.
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E-bikes do not require a driver’s license, registration or license plates. There is no minimum age of operation, except for a Class 3 e-bike, where the minimum age of operation is 14 years of age (State code 46.2-908.1).
Specific Local Policies and other Safety Regulations
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E-bikes follow the same regulations as traditional bicycles in Virginia Beach, even at popular spots like the Resort Oceanfront, however e-bikes are not permitted in all the same areas that bicycles are permitted in the Resort Area.
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All e-bike riders 14 years old or younger must always wear a helmet. State Code requires that each rider and passenger of a Class 3 e-bike must always wear a helmet, regardless of age.
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At this time, City and State code have not established speed limits for e-bikes, however, Virginia Beach City Code requires all cyclists to operate safely and responsibly, including maintaining a reasonable speed.
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City rules allow riding on sidewalks except in designated areas like Town Center and the Resort Area.
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Drivers overtaking cyclists must yield a 3-foot clearance.
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Cyclists and e-bike riders must not ride more than two abreast or impede traffic.
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Cyclists and e-bike riders cannot ride on interstates.
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Riding with earphones on or in both ears is prohibited.
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Anyone riding at night must use a front white light (visible at a distance of 500 ft.) and rear red reflector (visible at 600 ft.).
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Riders must yield to pedestrians, give audible signals before passing, and dismount, if necessary, to avoid contact.
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In the Resort Area, e-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks. City Code defines Resort Area as the area, from and including, the sidewalk on the west side of Pacific Avenue to the Atlantic Ocean between Rudee Inlet and 42nd Street.
Where to Ride
E-bikes are regulated similarly to traditional bicycles regarding access to most roads, bike lanes, sidewalks, and paths (outside the Resort Area). Mopeds and motor-driven cycles are classified differently and operate under distinct regulations.
Resort Area
The Resort Area has specific regulations pertaining to e-bike usage. E-bikes are prohibited on Atlantic Avenue during resort season, which is the time period from May 1 through Sept. 30. E-bikes area always prohibited on the Boardwalk, the Boardwalk Bike Path, grassy area adjacent to the Boardwalk and on oceanfront parks and plazas.
Additionally, e-bikes are never permitted on sidewalks in the Resort Area. Outside of the resort season timeframe, e-bikes are permitted on Atlantic Avenue.
Sidewalks & Shared-Use Paths (Outside Resort Area)
Unless posted otherwise, all e-bikes are allowed on sidewalks and designated paths outside the Resort Area except for Town Center where their use is prohibited on sidewalks or plazas. Mopeds and motor-driven cycles are strictly prohibited.
Location
Bicycles
Class 1 E-bikes
Class 2 E-bikes
Class 3 E-bikes
Location
Shared use paths
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Allowed
Location
Off-road mountain bike trails
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Allowed
Location
State parks *
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Not allowed
Location
Federal parks *
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Allowed
Location
Sidewalk
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Allowed
Location
Bike lane
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Allowed
Location
Street **
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Allowed
Location
Interstate
Bicycles
Not allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Not allowed
Location
Town Center sidewalks ***
Bicycles
Not allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Not allowed
Resort Area
Location
Oceanfront Bike Path
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Not allowed
Location
Oceanfront Boardwalk and sidewalks ***
Bicycles
Not allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Not allowed
Location
Atlantic Avenue (May-October)
Bicycles
Allowed
Class 1 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 2 E-bikes
Not allowed
Class 3 E-bikes
Not allowed
The Americans with Disabilities Act states that e-bikes used as a power assisted mobility device due to a mobility disability can be used anywhere pedestrians can walk.
* Not regulated by City of Virginia Beach. Regulations vary by agency and land management unit. Check each park for specific regulations.
** LSV’s only permitted on roads with a speed limit of 35 or under.
*** E-bikes, like regular bicycles, are prohibited on all sidewalks in the Oceanfront Resort Area and at Town Center.
Enforcement
Virginia Beach police officers often seek voluntary compliance and utilize encounters with individuals to educate them on applicable state and local laws. This is especially true with new laws and technology, such as e-bikes. However, willful, repeated violations or unsafe, reckless e-bike operation may result in the issuance of a criminal and/or civil summons.
Most violations of City ordinances pertaining to e-bikes are traffic infractions punishable by a fine of not more than $200 with some exceptions. Specifics are outlined in Sec. 7-2 of City Code. However, In Virginia Beach, a bicyclist can be charged with reckless driving, which is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying penalties of up to a $2,500 fine and up to 12 months in jail. The actual fine and punishment would depend on the specific circumstances of the offense.
E-bike Safety Tips & Etiquette
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Always wear a helmet – helmets are recommended for all riders on all types of bicycles (and e-bikes), but especially on Class 3 e-bikes (required by law) and for younger riders. Under City Code, riders 14 years or younger must wear a helmet.
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Avoid reckless behavior – stunts, wheelies, high rate of speed, impaired operation or otherwise using an e-bike in a manner that would risk life, limb or property.
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Be visible – use front and rear lights, reflectors and wear bright or reflective clothing, even during the day.
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Pay attention – avoid headphones on or in both ears and using mobile devices while riding.
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Proper use – do not carry passengers on equipment made for one person.
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Stay predictable – signal intentions, ride straight, avoid weaving and be aware of blind spots and large vehicles.
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Follow road rules – ride with traffic, obey stop signs, yield to pedestrians and pass carefully.
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Respect local restrictions – know where e-bikes are allowed (view in Park Finder App) and prohibited.
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Perform regular maintenance – routinely check brakes, tires, lights and motor disengagement.
What Is the City Doing to Encourage and Facilitate E-bike Safety?
The Planning, Design & Development Team in Parks & Recreation collaborated with the Police Department to establish an e-Bike Safety Task Force in the Summer of 2025. The task force is comprised of representatives from Parks & Recreation, Public Works, the Police Department, the Communications Office, the Resort Advisory Committee, the Active Transportation Advisory Committee and Resort Management.
The Task Force is developing a strategy, with input from key stakeholders, to improve public education about laws related to e-bike use, riding etiquette and safety guidelines. They will also be focusing on policies and infrastructure such as adding clarifying signage in appropriate areas throughout the City and simplifying City ordinances related to wheeled devices, including e-bikes.