Bike Theft Prevention, Crossing Guard and E-Bike Information

Bike Theft Prevention

Palo Alto residents are encouraged to register their bikes with Bike Index. If a stolen bike is recovered, the Palo Alto Police Department may check Bike Index using the bike’s serial number and then contact the owner if the bike is marked as stolen. Register Here.

• Report a Safety Concern using Palo Alto 311
• Bike Index Registration

Crossing Guard Information

If a crossing guard is missing from his or her post during normal school commute times, please contact the Palo Alto Police Department non- emergency number at (650) 329-2232.

• Adult Crossing Guard Locations Page(PDF, 33KB)
• Palo Alto Crossing Guard Warrants Page

Electric Bicycle Safety Information

California follows the federal definition of an electric bike, which allows up to 750 watts of motor power. If a vehicle marketed as an electric bicycle, or E-Bike exceeds 28 mph and has features like a throttle, it may actually be classified as a moped or motor vehicle, requiring registration, insurance, and a motorcycle license. Unauthorized moped or motor vehicle operation by a minor could result in citations, towing, or other penalties under the California Vehicle Code. Legal electric-assist and throttle bicycles are classified as follows:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only (max speed 20 mph) → No age restriction
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only (max speed 28 mph) → Must be at least 16 years old

• Class 2: Throttle-assisted (max speed 20 mph) → No age restriction, but not recommended for most school commutes

In Palo Alto, all classes of legal electric bicycles can be ridden on bike paths or trails, except on unpaved trails in the Baylands and Foothills Open Space Preserves. Legal electric bicycles are permitted for use on paved trails in the Baylands and Foothills Open Space Preserves. Legal electric bicycles with an electric-assist may be useful for students needing to replace longer distance car trips, while legal electric bicycles with a throttle are not recommended for most school commutes, unless a student has a physical impairment or mobility limitation that cannot be resolved with an adaptive cycle. The Safe Routes to School Team recommends students use non-electric bicycles, given their efficiency, generally more affordable price point, the short distance of most student's bike trips and the overall safety of operating a vehicle at a lower speed, in addition to the mental, physical, social and emotional health benefits students enjoy when biking around town. Review the following tips for sharing roads, sidewalks, and pathway courteously, safely and sustainably when operating an electric bicycle:

• Avoid riding on sidewalks, unless it’s absolutely necessary
• Pass farther to the left than a non-electric bicycle, as the sound of a motor may startle people and pets
• Consider purchasing an electric bicycle-specific helmet that can handle higher speeds and force impacts

Additional electric bicycle-related resources:

• California Highway Patrol Online E-Bike Safety Training Options
• Cycle Savvy E-Bike Safety Training for Teens
• E-bike vs. Electric Motorcycle Classifications