Castle Rock Tightens Rules for Electric Vehicles and E Bikes
The Castle Rock Town Council approved a new ordinance that updates traffic rules for electric and motorized vehicles, taking effect on Dec. 4, 2025. The measure clarifies where off highway vehicles and different classes of electric bicycles are allowed, raises penalties for violations, and adopts the 2024 Model Traffic Code to align town rules with statewide standards.
Castle Rock moved to tighten regulations on a growing array of electric and motorized conveyances, with a comprehensive ordinance approved at the Town Council meeting on Nov. 4 and implemented on Dec. 4, 2025. The changes seek to reduce conflicts on streets, sidewalks and trails by clarifying vehicle classifications, safety requirements and enforcement tools available to local officials.
Under the ordinance all off highway vehicles, including dirt bikes, unlicensed electric motorcycles and similar recreational vehicles, are prohibited from Town streets, roadways, paths, trails and sidewalks. The revisions also draw a clear line among electric bicycle types. Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles are now the only e bike classifications permitted on Castle Rock bike, pedestrian and multi use paths. Class 3 electric bicycles are explicitly not allowed on sidewalks, paths or trails inside Town limits.
The ordinance increases penalties for unlawful use of these vehicles within Castle Rock. Notably, parents or guardians who knowingly allow their children under 18 to drive or ride an off highway vehicle in Town limits face a $250 fine. Additional clarifications cover electric motorcycles, electric low power scooters, golf carts and low speed electric vehicles, spelling out driver age requirements, licensing and registration, helmet and insurance requirements, and where each vehicle type is allowed or prohibited.
Officials adopted the 2024 Model Traffic Code published by the Colorado Department of Transportation as part of the update, bringing Castle Rock rules into closer alignment with state guidance and creating a consistent framework for enforcement and public education.
For residents this means a change in how families, commuters and recreational riders use local streets and trails. Riders of higher power e bikes and off highway machines will need to find appropriate private property or designated off road venues, while owners of permitted devices should check licensing and insurance obligations. The ordinance aims to protect pedestrians and trail users while providing clearer rules for operators.
Castle Rock joins many communities that are adjusting local law to address the rapid rise of electric micromobility. The new rules emphasize safety and predictability as the town balances recreational use, transportation needs and public space management.
