Mokena Enacts New Regulations for E-Bikes, Scooters, and Golf Carts

Village of Mokena Board of Trustees Meeting | October 27, 2025

Article Summary: The Mokena Village Board has passed a new ordinance establishing comprehensive regulations for electric bicycles, scooters, and golf carts in response to a sharp increase in safety concerns and resident complaints. The new rules set age limits, require parental supervision for young e-bike riders, and outline specific operational and equipment requirements for each type of vehicle.

E-Vehicle Regulations Key Points:

• The new ordinance allows Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on village streets and bike paths but requires riders 16 and under to be accompanied by a parent.

• Electric scooters may be operated on streets with speed limits of 30 mph or less, but only by licensed drivers aged 18 or older.

• Golf carts are now permitted on residential streets with speed limits of 25 mph or less, provided they are equipped with safety features and operated by a licensed, insured driver.

• The ordinance was prompted by a significant rise in calls for service related to e-vehicles, from just three in 2023 to at least 16 so far in 2025.

The Village of Mokena Board of Trustees on Monday, October 27, 2025, unanimously adopted a new ordinance to regulate the use of electric bicycles, electric scooters, and golf carts on public roadways. The move aims to enhance public safety and provide clear enforcement guidelines for police following a dramatic increase in incidents involving these vehicles.

Police Chief Brian Benton presented the ordinance, explaining that calls for service related to e-vehicles, including complaints and near-miss accidents, have grown exponentially, rising from just three in 2023 to at least 16 in 2025 to date. He said the ordinance is needed to “educate the public on the safety issues” and address the danger of young, untrained riders operating potentially high-speed vehicles in traffic.

Under the new law, Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, which have a top assisted speed of 20 mph, are permitted on village streets and bike paths. However, in a key safety provision, riders aged 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent. “We don’t want to limit children from using them, but we’re concerned for their safety,” Benton said, noting that many young riders have not had driver’s education. Class 3 e-bikes, with speeds up to 28 mph, are restricted to riders 16 and older per state law. All e-bikes are prohibited from sidewalks.

For electric scooters, the ordinance aligns with state law, permitting their use on streets with speed limits of 30 mph or less. However, operators must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license. The ordinance includes an exemption for small, non-powerful toy scooters, which children can still ride on sidewalks.

The ordinance also addresses numerous resident requests regarding golf carts. They are now permitted for use on residential streets where the speed limit is 25 mph or less. To be street-legal, golf carts must be equipped with lights, turn signals, seat belts, mirrors, and a rear safety reflector. Operators must have a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. The vehicles are not allowed on busier collector roads like Wolf Road or Schoolhouse Road except to cross them.

“Approval of this ordinance will create a uniform regulatory framework consistent with law, allow for enforcement, enhance safety, and provide clarity throughout the community,” Benton concluded.