Knoxville, TN Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)
Key Facts
- Class 1/2 e-bikes
- treated as bicycles in parks
- Class 3 e-bikes
- treated as motorized vehicles
- Motorized vehicles
- confined to park roadways/lots
- Governing sections
- Knoxville Code §§ 20-52, 20-59
Summary
In Knoxville's parks, only Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes count as regular bicycles and get bicycle access to trails and paths; Class 3 e-bikes are excluded and treated as motorized vehicles instead.
Bicycle means every device propelled by human power upon which any person may ride, having two (2) tandem wheels, either of which is more than twenty (20) inches in diameter or a tricycle built for a child or an adult with a seat for only one (1) operator and no passenger. For the purposes of this chapter only, "bicycle" shall also include a class I or class II electric bicycle, as defined by Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 55-8-301(1) and (2), which shall not be considered a motorized vehicle.
Dog park means any area specially designed and constructed for use by dogs and dog owners/guardians that is fenced or an otherwise enclosed area within a city park where dogs are allowed to be released from leashes.
Park means a park, natural preserve, playground, beach, recreation center, linear park, trail, greenway, or any other area in the city owned, leased or used by the city and devoted to active or passive recreation. "Park" shall not include any property owned, leased or used by the city and designated as a public assembly facility.
Person is any person, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company, or organization of any kind.
Playground means an indoor or outdoor facility that is intended for recreation of children and owned by the city.
Skatepark means an area specially designed and constructed for people practicing and performing on skateboards, skates, bicycles or similar non-motorized devices. These areas shall be specifically designated as a "skatepark."
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 80).
Full Breakdown
Knoxville's parks ordinance (City Code § 20-52) defines "bicycle" to include a Class 1 or Class 2 electric bicycle as defined by Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-8-301(1)-(2), so those e-bikes get the same park access as pedal bikes -- paved roads, paths and greenways under § 20-59. A Class 3 e-bike is not covered by that definition, so it falls under the ordinance's broader "vehicle" definition and the § 20-59(14) rule confining motorized vehicles to park roadways and parking areas, meaning Class 3 e-bikes cannot use trails or bike paths reserved for bicycles.
Violations & Fines
Riding a Class 3 e-bike on a bike-only park path or trail violates § 20-59; the general Code penalty in § 1-9 applies, and park staff may eject violators or confiscate the vehicle under § 20-54(c).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a Class 3 e-bike on a Knoxville greenway?
What makes an e-bike Class 1, 2, or 3 in Tennessee?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Knoxville
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