Lavallette Formally Prohibits ‘E-Bikes’ and Scooters on Boardwalk

An e-bike. (Credit: CAB Motorworks)

Lavallette officials this week voted to prohibit so-called “e-bikes” and scooters on the boardwalk, introducing a measure that effectively bans all motorized vehicles except those used for medical mobility purposes.

The ordinance was introduced largely in response to New Jersey’s new e-bike and scooter law, which legalizes the vehicles statewide, but places numerous restrictions on their use – including age limits and registration requirements. Lavallette has an ordinance that prohibits “low speed vehicles” on the boardwalk, but with the passage of the state statute, e-bikes are now considered their own category of vehicle.

“The confusion was that we have an existing ordinance that identifies slow-moving vehicles, which e-bikes were considered,” said Councilwoman Joanne Filippone. “Right now, unless we identify what an e-bike is compared to a slow moving vehicle, they’re not prohibited. So they’ll be allowed in the town, but not on the boardwalk.”

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The new ordinance places a more broad ban on “motorized vehicles” of any kind – gas, electric, or otherwise-powered – from being used on the boardwalk.

“Mainly because of the new e-Bike law, we had to prohibit them, and we just did it more broadly with all motorized vehicles,” said Filippone. “It’s basic New Jersey state law, adapted for the boardwalk.”

Traditional “foot powered” pedal bikes are still allowed on the boardwalk during certain hours. Under a policy adopted several years ago, Lavallette allows bikes between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. during the bathing season, and at all times during the off-season.