ANNAPOLIS, MD—The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is proposing new regulations that would allow pedal-assist electric bicycles, or e-bikes, on many of the state’s public trails. The move is aimed at increasing accessibility and enjoyment of Maryland’s public lands.
The proposed regulations, published Friday in the Maryland Register, would permit Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes on state trails where traditional bicycles are already allowed. Class 1 and 3 e-bikes are “pedal-assist,” meaning the electric motor only provides power when the rider is actively pedaling. The assistance cuts off when the bike reaches 20 mph.
This new policy comes as the sale of e-bikes has seen a dramatic increase in recent years. Previously, all e-bikes were treated as motorized vehicles and were restricted to roads and parking lots on public lands.
“This e-bike policy will help even more people enjoy Maryland’s multi-use trails,” said Sandi Olek, director of the Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation.
The proposed regulations make exceptions for trails designed for specific user groups, as well as for infrastructure, safety, or habitat protection concerns, at the discretion of the department.
Under the new proposal, Class 2 e-bikes, which have a throttle and do not require pedaling, would only be allowed on trails if the bike is considered “adaptive,” designed for individuals with physical disabilities or mobility challenges.
Currently, Class 1 and 3 e-bikes are only permitted on the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail and the Western Maryland Rail Trail.
The DNR is accepting public comments on the proposed regulations through September 22, 2025. Feedback can be submitted to the Office of Outdoor Recreation, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, 580 Taylor Ave C-4, Annapolis, MD 21401; emailed to [email protected]; or submitted through an online comment form on the DNR website.
E-bike riders are encouraged to follow trail etiquette, including yielding to pedestrians and equestrians, maintaining a safe speed, and turning off their motors when passing horses to avoid startling them. The DNR’s general rule for e-cyclists is “Say Hey, Give Way, and Enjoy the Day.”
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