E-motorcycles caught driving illegally on sidewalks, trails and streets in Falls Church can now be seized by local police.
City Council members on Nov. 9 voted 7-0 on the new enforcement power following a public hearing that attracted no speakers pro or con. The decision came after months of bubbling concerns about a small group of riders causing mayhem on trails and other areas.
A city official said the measure was narrowly tailored to address a specific concern.
“These are not e-bikes, these are not things with pedals. These are ones that essentially are electric or gas-powered motorcycles that are unlicensed,” said Peter Honnef, professional-standards manager for the police department.
The seizure authority took effect immediately after the vote. The General Assembly granted localities the power to enact seizure ordinances in 2024.
An existing city ordinance gave Falls Church police the power to impound off-road motorcycles deemed to be operating illegally, with the vehicles returned to the owner after the legal case was concluded.
That option would be retained, as the updated ordinance “would not force the police department to seize them and dispose of them — it just opens that opportunity up as a tool,” Honnef said.
If vehicles are confiscated, officers would be required to “immediately” make a written report of the incident and justification for the action.
Council members discussed the measure at their Oct. 26 meeting and in more detail at an earlier work session.
After the Nov. 9 vote, Mayor Letty Hardi asked staff to get the word out that the equipment could now be confiscated.
“We already have a bunch of communication about what courteous behavior is and what’s allowed and not allowed,” she said. “It would be great to give people a final warning that these could be seized if you’re seen operating them illegally.”
