Children under 12 are barred from riding Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes in the city of San Diego starting Aug. 13, according to East County Magazine. The new ordinance applies to city streets, bike paths, parks, trails and boardwalks inside San Diego city limits.

The rules include a 60-day warning and education period before citations begin Oct. 12. East County Magazine reported that cited riders can complete an online safety course within 120 days instead of paying a $25 fine, and parents or guardians can share liability for citations issued to minors.

The change was made possible by Assembly Bill 2234, the San Diego Electric Bicycle Safety Pilot Program. East County Magazine reported that San Diego joins other nearby cities, including La Mesa, Carlsbad and Encinitas, that have tightened e-bike rules after rising concern about youth crashes.

The ordinance does not directly change Santee city rules, but it matters for local families who ride or drive through neighboring communities. Santee parents should also watch whether more East County cities adopt similar rules as schools restart and e-bikes remain popular with students.

East County Magazine reported that San Diego will prioritize education before citations. Families can check local city rules before riding, especially when crossing between Santee, La Mesa and San Diego.