E-bike Regulations for Snyderville Basin’s Trail System

Basin Recreation and Park City Municipal completed a community survey in 2023 to evaluate the use of electric assisted bikes (e-bikes) on trails and pathways. Summit County carefully evaluated the community feedback and found that clear and concise e-bike regulations were supported by the residents of Summit County. In August of 2024, these regulations were put into place.

As part of our commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all trail users, we want to ensure everyone is informed about the regulations regarding e-bikes in Summit County. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, please take a moment to familiarize yourself with these guidelines.

What is an E-bike?

An electric assisted bike, or e-bike, is a bicycle with a motor that does not exceed a power output of 750 watts, has fully operable pedals that were permanently affixed from the manufacturer, and is fully capable of operating as a bicycle without the electric motor. There are three classifications of e-bikes:

Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
Class 2: Pedal-assisted, throttle assisted, and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
Class 3: Pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph.

If you have a motor that is over 750 watts, the ability to exceed 20 mph or greater on motor power alone, and do not have permanently affixed pedals from the manufacturer, this is NOT an e-bike. Electric motorcycles are NOT permitted on the Snyderville Basin Trail System.

Where are E-bikes Allowed?

E-bikes are allowed on commuter, multi-use pathways defined as paved or soft-surface trails 8 feet or wider.

E-bikes are NOT permitted on single track trails. Exceptions apply for riders on a Class 1 e-bike age 65 or older or persons with mobility disabilities. A permit or courtesy tag for exempt riders is not required.

All bikes, including e-bikes, must comply with the 15 mph speed limit on commuter multi-use pathways.

Are There Age Restrictions on Multi-Use Pathways?

An individual under eight years old may not operate an e-bike with the electric motor engaged on any public property, highway, path, or sidewalk.

An individual under 14 years old may not operate an e-bike with the electric motor engaged on any public property, highway, path, or sidewalk unless the individual is under the direct supervision of the individual’s parent or guardian.

An individual under 16 years old may not operate a class 3 electric assisted bicycle.

Additional information regarding electric assisted bicycle age regulations available in Utah Code 41-6a-1115.5

These policies are from Summit County Code 7-5 Ordinance No. 981.

Ordinance No. 981

Please contact the Basin Recreation Rangers for questions or concerns related to e-bikes or e-bike policies.

rangers@basinrecreation.org

E-bike Etiquette

Keep the following in mind next time you recreate on an e-bike:

E-bike users must yield to all other users, including hikers, horses, and non e-bikes.
Ride on the right and pass on the left, giving an audible alert before passing.
All bikes, including e-bikes, must comply with the 15 mph speed limit on commuter multi-use pathways.

E-bike users are strongly encouraged to practice safe behaviors while riding. This includes wearing a helmet, traveling at slower speeds, and leaving plenty of room while passing other users.

Enforcement and Compliance

It is the Basin Recreation Ranger’s duty to educate the public on e-bike regulations and report any non-compliant activity to the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. Non-compliance may result in fines or other penalties. We encourage all e-bike users to be mindful of the e-bike regulations and respect the shared use of the Snyderville Basin Trail System. Basin Recreation Staff, along with law enforcement and emergency services, are exempt from any use restriction on trails. This is lined out in the Summit County code.