Fines now possible for e-bike riders under 12 and their parents
Published on February 01, 2026
E-bike riders under 12 and their parents can be fined under a new San Marcos law, starting Feb. 1. The law was approved by the City Council in October 2025, with a three-month educational period preceding full enforcement.
The enforcement goal will continue to focus on gaining voluntary compliance, rather than citations and fines, although those remedies will now be available too.
The ordinance is part of the City of San Marcos’ “Ride Right” traffic safety campaign, which includes:
- Partnering with the San Marcos Unified School District, the San Marcos Sheriff’s Department and parent groups to host “pop up” educational and awareness events
- Increased enforcement efforts by the Sheriff’s Department
- Expanded access to e-bike safety training
- Installation of signage prohibiting e-bikes on sidewalks in business districts
The local ordinance follows new state legislation, Assembly Bill 2234, which went into effect Jan. 1, 2025. The law allows cities in San Diego County to set a minimum age of 12 for Class 1 and Class 2 e-bike riders. The City of San Marcos adopted the ordinance as part of a broader effort to improve safety on city streets and sidewalks, particularly for children.
San Marcos is the first city along the Highway 78 corridor to implement an under 12 e-bike ban. The state law will remain in effect through 2029, at which time the state will evaluate whether to expand the policy statewide.
The city, in partnership with the school district and the Sheriff’s Department, will continue to focus on education and awareness. Additional e-bike safety training workshops, including a hands-on training, will be offered. Sign up to get notified.