Beginning June 26, 2026, most low-speed electric bicycles and motorized bicycles in New Jersey must be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Riders must be at least 15 and generally hold a driver's or moped license. Motorized bicycles must be insured, while low-speed electric bicycles do not require insurance. E-trikes are excluded.

Community associations should review rules governing e-bike use, parking, storage, and charging. Existing documents may not clearly distinguish e-bikes from traditional bicycles, mopeds, or other motorized vehicles, which can create enforcement problems. Boards should consider reasonable rules addressing speeds, pedestrian areas, private roads, pathways, common-area parking, indoor storage, and lithium-ion battery charging. Associations should also remain alert to children under 15 operating e-bikes within the community and establish appropriate procedures for notifying parents or guardians and addressing repeated violations.

Enforcement should focus on matters within the association's authority, including unsafe operation, property damage, obstruction, and violations of properly adopted rules, rather than verifying every rider's state credentials. Blanket prohibitions should be approached carefully, particularly when narrower safety rules are sufficient or an e-bike is requested as a disability-related accommodation. Before adopting a policy, boards should consult association counsel and their insurance professionals to confirm authority, proper procedures, enforceability, and appropriate liability coverage.

If you have questions about how these new requirements affect your community association's governing documents, rule enforcement, or policy development, please contact our office at 908-852-2600. We can assist boards in evaluating existing provisions, drafting appropriate rules, and ensuring compliance with applicable New Jersey law.