Arlington Heights, IL Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)

Section 18-313 of the Arlington Heights Municipal Code defines three classes of 'motorized mobility vehicle or device': a Low-Speed Mobility Device operates up to 10 miles per hour; a Standard Mobility Device operates between 10 and 28 miles per hour; and an Out-of-Class Electric Vehicle operates at, or is capable of, speeds greater than 28 miles per hour, a category that expressly includes mopeds and modified e-bicycles. Anyone under 18, or under 16 with a learner's permit or driver's license, cannot operate a Standard device on any public street, sidewalk, parking lot, bike path, or other public property in the Village, unless they have scored Silver or higher on the Ride Illinois Bicycle Safety Quiz; riders under 16 can operate a Low-Speed device without that quiz.

Where each class may ride differs by classification: Low-Speed devices are allowed on public roadways, sidewalks, and anywhere non-motorized bicycles are permitted; Standard devices are limited to public roadways and shared-use paths at up to 15 mph and are barred from sidewalks; and Out-of-Class vehicles cannot be operated on public roadways or sidewalks at all. Every rider on a public street must also follow Article XV of Chapter 11 of the Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/11-1501 through 11-1518). Required equipment applies across classes: a front lamp visible 500 feet, a rear red reflector or lamp, a working brake, and a helmet at all times on any public street, sidewalk, parking lot, bike path, or other public property.

No adult may permit a minor under 16 to violate the Section, and police vehicles, fire vehicles, and other government vehicles operated in the course of duty are exempt. The rules were adopted by ordinance and apply throughout the Village's corporate limits in Cook County (and the small Lake County portion), not just downtown.