Campbell River RCMP is reminding riders, and parents, that gas-powered dirt bikes and high-powered e-dirt bikes are not street legal, as complaints about dangerous riding continue to climb.

Comox Valley RCMP issued a similar reminder last month.

Police say they've seen a growing number of dirt bikes and e-dirt bikes being ridden on city streets, sidewalks, neighbourhoods, and trails, including the Beaver Lodge and Willow Creek Conservancy areas, where they're not permitted.

Constable Maury Tyre says the only legal way to get a dirt bike from a residential area to an approved riding location is by pushing it or transporting it by truck or trailer.

He says officers are seeing more riders ignoring the rules and engaging in dangerous behaviour, leading to several close calls with vehicles and pedestrians, as well as damage to community property, including sports fields.

RCMP say many people mistakenly believe e-dirt bikes follow the same regulations as e-bikes. However, while legal e-bikes are limited to 32 kilometres an hour, have a maximum 500-watt motor, and require working pedals, dirt bikes and e-dirt bikes are considered off-road vehicles and can't be used on public roads unless they meet licensing, insurance, and registration requirements.

Police say complaints involving off-road vehicles, including dirt bikes, e-dirt bikes, e-scooters, mopeds, mini-motorcycles, and some e-bikes, continue to increase, with many incidents involving young riders.

Those caught riding illegally could face hefty fines for offences such as driving without insurance, a licence, or a helmet, along with vehicle impoundments and, in some cases, criminal charges for dangerous stunting.

Tyre says officers understand that young people test limits but adds that putting others at risk and damaging public property goes beyond "kids being kids."

He says keeping riders, pedestrians, and motorists safe requires cooperation from police, parents, and the community.

Police are asking the public if they see illegal use of these E-dirt bikes, dirt bikes or mini bikes, to contact the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.