Boise, ID Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)
Key Facts
- Local E-bike definition
- 750W motor, 20 mph max, one class
- Foothills Trails
- Banned without written Parks Dept authorization
- Greenbelt & bike lanes
- Allowed, treated as bicycles
- Governing section
- Boise City Code § 6-13-9
- Violation penalty
- Infraction under § 6-13-24
Summary
Boise treats e-bikes as bicycles on roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks, but bans them outright on Ridge to Rivers Foothills Trails unless Parks and Recreation issues written ADA authorization.
No person shall operate, drive, lead, or ride an E-bike or E-scooter on any Foothills Trail unless written authorization is obtained from the City's Department of Parks and Recreation in accordance with the provisions of the American With Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 USC section 12101 et seq.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-31: Code current through: Ord. 20-26, passed 6-9-2026).
Full Breakdown
Boise City Code defines an E-bike as a two-wheeled bicycle with electric assist up to 750 watts that cannot exceed 20 mph and cuts power when the brakes are applied: one class, not the state's three-tier system. Riders get full bicycle rights and duties on roadways, marked bike lanes, the Boise River Greenbelt, and sidewalks. But Boise City Code section 6-13-9 bars operating, driving, leading, or riding an E-bike or E-scooter on any Foothills Trail in the Ridge to Rivers network unless the Parks and Recreation Department grants written ADA authorization first.
Violations & Fines
Riding an e-bike on a Foothills Trail without written Parks and Recreation authorization is an infraction under Boise City Code § 6-13-24, punishable per § 1-4-2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride an e-bike on Boise's Foothills Trails?
Does Boise use the state's Class 1, 2, 3 e-bike system?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boise
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