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Dedham Public Schools

Notice from Dedham Schools & Police Department re: Motorized Bikes, Motorized Scooters, and Related Electric Vehicles

Posted Date: 09/01/26 (05:17 PM)
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Logo for Dedham Public Schools with the text 'DEDHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS'.
As we prepare for a safe and successful school year, the Dedham Public Schools and the Dedham Police Department are partnering to ensure the safety of all students traveling to and from school.

We are writing to share important state laws and district guidance regarding motorized bikes, motorized scooters, and related electric vehicles: 

  • Age Requirement (16+): Under Massachusetts law, individuals must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license or learners permit to operate motorized bikes, motorized scooters, or similar electric vehicles. 
  • Mandatory Helmet Law: Massachusetts law requires all operators of motorized bikes and scooters   to wear a motorcycle compliant helmet.
The laws related to electric bicycles are different:
  • What is an Electric Bicycle: A bicycle equipped with operable pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts or less.  Electric motors cease to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
  • Mandatory Helmet Law: Bike helmets must be worn by riders 16 years of age and under. 
  • Age/Licensing Requirement: None.

To ensure student safety and compliance with state law, the following procedure will be enforced on all school grounds:
  • Underage/Unlicensed Drivers: If a student under the age of 16 or not possessing a valid driver’s license or learners permit arrives at school operating a motorized bike or scooter, the school will immediately secure the vehicle. The Dedham Police Department will pick up or tow the vehicle, and parents/guardians will be required to retrieve it at the Dedham Public Safety Building or tow lot.  Owners will be responsible for any tow fees.
  • Riding Without a Helmet: If any student arrives at school riding a motorized bike or scooter without a helmet, the operator may be issued a civil fine of $30 for a first offense, escalating to $105 per infraction for a 3rd or more offense.  Any student arriving at school riding a bicycle, including electric bicycles, without a helmet shall have the bicycle impounded and held for pickup at the Dedham Public Safety Building by a parent or guardian.

The operation of motorized bikes, motorized scooters and electric bicycles on sidewalks is prohibited.

Please take time to discuss these regulations with your child. By ensuring your child follows age requirements and helmet laws, you play a vital role in keeping our school routes and community safe.

Thank you for your partnership and support.

Sincerely,

Nan Murphy, Superintendent of Schools
Michael D'Entremont, Dedham Chief of Police