California landlords cannot ban e-bikes according to a new state law.

On October 11, Governor Gavin Newsom (pictured above) signed Senate Bill 712, crafted by Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank). SB 712 prevents landlords from disallowing tenants from owning and charging e-bikes and e-scooters in their apartments.

Despite private developers implementing policies to restrict tenants from owning or storing e-bikes in their units, more and more people are embracing active and eco-friendly transportation options.

Unfortunately, certain landlords have begun responding to the increased use of e-bikes by imposing bans and storage limitations. These measures disproportionately impact low-income families who rely on these modes of transportation. They also make it harder for California to achieve its greenhouse gas reduction objectives.

Under SB 712, landlords are now prohibited from forbidding tenants from owning, storing, or recharging a micromobility device in their dwelling units. Landlords can only ban e-bikes in apartment units if they provide secure, long-term storage for the devices.

The bill also mandates tenants to store micro-mobility devices in compliance with the lithium-ion battery safety guidelines issued by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

In a press release, cycling advocacy group Streets For All thanked Senator Portantino for his leadership.

A related pro-cycling bill was signed into law by Governor Newsom on the same day. SB 538 mandates the Department of Transportation to appoint an advisor on active transportation, specifically focusing on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

SB 538 mandates the creation of a Bicycle Facilities Unit (BFU) within California’s Department of Transportation. The BFU’s primary responsibilities include coordinating bicycle programs, promoting well-designed bicycle facilities, and securing funding  for these facilities.

Presently, the California Department of Transportation lacks dedicated expertise to guide them on matters concerning bicycle transportation.

Image Source: @TONYxTWO, twitter.com