Overview
- Douglas County commissioners unanimously approved the emergency ordinance on Tuesday, June 24, and it took effect immediately to give deputies local enforcement tools.
- The rule requires helmets for riders under 18 and makes reckless or careless operation subject to fines up to $1,000.
- The ordinance creates parental liability for knowingly allowing minors to ride illegally and authorizes deputies to impound off‑highway vehicles operated in violation of the law.
- It targets e‑motorcycles, e‑dirt bikes and low‑powered scooters while explicitly excluding pedal‑assist e‑bikes and ties road use to proper licensing, registration and insurance when state law requires them.
- Officials said the move responds to frequent reports of youths doing wheelies and riding on sidewalks and trails, and the county will combine enforcement with school outreach and a sheriff's traffic safety hotline at 303‑660‑7539 for reporting unsafe riding.