Starting October 15, 2026, the City of Perrysburg requires Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes to be registered with the Perrysburg Police Division before they can be ridden on the city's bicycle-only or shared-use paths. The ordinance, approved by city council in September, comes in response to a rise in e-bike-related crashes and complaints across northwest Ohio, and aims to clarify where different types of e-bikes can be ridden safely.

Who needs to register

Registration is free and is required for Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes ridden on bicycle-only or shared-use paths. Registration of conventional bicycles and Class 3 e-bikes is voluntary. Importantly, the requirement applies to everyone using those paths — including riders who live outside Perrysburg. Visitors passing through are not exempt.

Where each type of bike can be ridden

• Class 1 & Class 2 e-bikes: Permitted on city streets and on shared-use paths, provided they are registered.
• Class 3 e-bikes: May only be ridden on roadways. Under Ohio law, riders must be at least 16.
• Sidewalks: Riders under 15 may continue to ride bicycles and e-bikes on sidewalks. Riders 15 and older may not ride e-bikes on sidewalks — they must use the roadway or a registered path.
• Helmets: Riders under 18 must wear a properly fitted helmet when operating a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike on a bicycle-only or shared-use path. Parents verify the helmet during registration.

How to register

Residents and visitors can complete the registration form through the City of Perrysburg's Bicycle & E-Bike Registration webpage. After submitting the form, the Perrysburg Police Division will contact the applicant to schedule an in-person inspection, where an officer confirms the bike matches the registration details before issuing the appropriate sticker. The sticker lets officers quickly identify which bikes are permitted on which paths. Registering also helps police recover a bike if it's ever reported stolen.

Grace period

A 60-day grace period follows the October 15 effective date, giving riders time to register before any penalties apply.