07/13/2026
PUBLIC NOTICE: Golf Carts, Off-Road Vehicles, and E-Bikes
Over the past several months, the Satsuma Police Department has been issuing warnings to juveniles and their parents/guardians regarding the operation of golf carts, ATVs, dirt bikes, go-carts, and other off-road vehicles on public streets, public property, and public rights-of-way within the City of Satsuma.
During that time, officers have documented the warnings that were issued, including the juveniles involved, their parents/guardians, and contact information.
At this time, the Satsuma Police Department will no longer be issuing warnings for these violations. Officers will begin issuing Municipal Ordinance Tickets when violations are observed. In many cases involving juveniles, those tickets may be issued to the parent or guardian.
These tickets can become expensive, and we want parents and guardians to be aware before they become the first to receive one.
Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to secure the keys to golf carts, ATVs, dirt bikes, go-carts, and other off-road vehicles in a location where juveniles cannot access them without permission. Preventing unauthorized access is the best way to avoid a citation and, more importantly, to prevent a serious injury.
E-BIKE INFORMATION
Alabama law recognizes three classes of electric bicycles. To qualify as an electric bicycle under Alabama law, the bicycle must have fully operable pedals, a saddle or seat, and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.
Class 1: Pedal assist only. The motor provides assistance only while the rider is pedaling and stops assisting at 20 mph.
Class 2: Throttle capable. The motor may propel the bicycle without pedaling, but it cannot provide assistance once the bicycle reaches 20 mph.
Class 3: Pedal assist only. The motor provides assistance only while the rider is pedaling and stops assisting at 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes must have a speedometer. Operators and passengers on Class 3 e-bikes must wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet. A person under 16 years old may not operate a Class 3 e-bike.
E-bikes are generally treated like bicycles under Alabama law, which means riders must follow applicable traffic laws. This includes riding with the flow of traffic, obeying traffic control devices, using lights and safety equipment when required, and following bicycle roadway rules.
E-bikes that have been modified, exceed the legal class limits, or have a motor of 750 watts or more may not qualify as electric bicycles under Alabama law. Depending on the facts, those devices may be handled as motor-driven cycles, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, or other motor vehicles, which may involve additional violations.
The goal of this notice is not to issue tickets. The goal is to prevent injuries and make sure parents understand the rules before enforcement action is taken.
Please help us keep Satsuma’s children, streets, neighborhoods, parks, and public areas safe.