Castle Pines tightens rules on off-highway and low-speed vehicles

Castle Pines has drawn a sharper line around what can roll through its neighborhoods: off-highway vehicles are out on city streets, sidewalks, paths and trails, while only Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes remain allowed on Castle Pines bike, pedestrian and multi-use paths.

The City Council approved Ordinance 26-04 on April 28, and the city announced the new rules May 6. City officials said the change was built with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and was intended to give law enforcement clearer tools as electric-powered recreation and neighborhood travel have become more common in Castle Pines and across Douglas County.

The ordinance targets off-highway vehicles and low-speed electric vehicles, but it does not apply to e-bikes or electric scooters. That distinction matters for families trying to sort out what can legally be used around the city. Castle Pines said Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on city sidewalks, paths and trails, even as Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes remain permitted on those routes.

The city said the update responds to growing concern about unsafe riding behavior, especially involving minors on public streets, trails, alleys and other public property. Under the new rules, minors under 18 must wear a properly fitted helmet when riding an off-highway vehicle, and parents or legal guardians can be held financially responsible if a child illegally operates one on public property. The city’s fine range for that parent responsibility provision runs from $250 to $2,650.

Castle Pines also made clear that riders can be cited for careless or reckless operation. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, which provides law-enforcement service for the city, may impound illegally operated vehicles. That enforcement piece is a major part of the ordinance, which city officials said was designed not only to reduce confusion, but also to prevent injuries and property damage.

Low-speed electric vehicles fall under a separate set of rules. They must be driven by licensed operators, and seat belts and child restraints must be used when required. Colorado law already limits most low-speed electric vehicles to roadways posted at 35 mph or less, with limited exceptions on some 40 mph highways, and state law generally bars off-highway vehicles from public streets, roads and highways unless a local rule allows otherwise.

Golf carts were treated separately and remain off city streets, sidewalks, paths and trails in Castle Pines. They may only be used on golf courses. The city’s message was direct: as these vehicles become more visible, Castle Pines is moving to keep them in the right places before unsafe riding becomes a larger problem.