Electric Scooter & Bicycle Regulations

The Village of Bensenville has enacted specific regulations governing the operation of low-speed electric scooters within the Village limits. These regulations are intended to promote public safety and ensure responsible use of electric scooters on public roadways and in residential areas. Read the full ordinance here.

Age and Licensing Requirements

• Operators must be at least 18 years of age.
• A valid driver’s license is required to operate a low-speed electric scooter.

Equipment Requirements

• During nighttime operation, scooters must be equipped with:
  • A front lamp emitting white light.
  • A red rear reflector visible from at least 100 feet.
• Operators may not carry items that prevent them from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars.
• Only one person may ride the scooter at a time.

Traffic Law Compliance

• Operators must obey all traffic control devices, including stop signs and signals.
• Riders must yield to pedestrians at all times.
• Attaching the scooter or rider to another vehicle is strictly prohibited.
• All applicable provisions of the Illinois Vehicle Code and Village ordinances apply.

Where Scooters May Operate

• Operation is permitted only on public streets with speed limits of 30 mph or lower and with fewer than four lanes.
• Operation is not permitted on:
  • State highways
  • Roadways with speed limits over 30 mph
  • Four-lane roadways

Safety Recommendations

• Riders are strongly encouraged to wear a helmet and use bright or reflective clothing to enhance visibility.
• Operators should avoid using earbuds, mobile phones, or other distractions while riding.
• Parents and guardians are responsible for ensuring minors understand and comply with all state and local regulations.

Use of Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes) in the Village of Bensenville

The Village of Bensenville reminds residents and visitors that the operation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) within the Village is governed by Illinois state law as well as applicable local ordinances. Read the full ordinance here.

Illinois State Law

Illinois law classifies e-bikes into three categories, each with specific operating rules:

Class 1 and Class 2 E-Bikes

• May be operated on roads, bike lanes, side paths, multi-use trails, and shared-use paths.
• Operation on sidewalks is not permitted unless expressly allowed by local ordinance.
• Riders must comply with all rules of the road.

Class 3 E-Bikes

• Pedal-assist e-bikes capable of reaching speeds up to 28 mph.
• Operators must be at least 16 years of age.
• Permitted on roads, designated bike lanes, and multi-use paths.
• Sidewalk operation is prohibited.

Bensenville-Specific Information

Complete Streets Policy

The Village has adopted a “Complete Streets” policy to ensure that transportation infrastructure is designed to accommodate all roadway users, including e-bike riders, pedestrians, and motorists.

Local Authority

Municipalities retain the authority to enact additional regulations regarding e-bike operation, including restrictions on sidewalk use or specific trail access. Residents are encouraged to consult the official Village of Bensenville website for the most current local ordinances.