The Comox Valley RCMP is urging riders and parents to follow the rules around dirt bikes and high-powered e-dirt bikes as complaints continue to increase across the region.

Police say both gas-powered dirt bikes and electric dirt bikes are not street legal and are being seen more often on roads, sidewalks, trails, and in neighbourhoods near schools and parks.

RCMP say many riders and parents may incorrectly believe e-dirt bikes fall under the same rules as e-bikes, but under the BC Motor Vehicle Act, gas and electric dirt bikes are treated much the same.

Street-legal e-bikes are limited to 32 kilometres an hour, restricted to 500 watts of power, and must have functioning pedals.

“Whether it’s powered by gas or electricity, the rules around safe operation and road use remain very similar.”, said Constable Monika Terragni.

“The concern isn’t about taking fun away from kids — it’s about preventing serious injuries and helping young riders avoid consequences that can follow them for years.”

Police say complaints involving dangerous micromobility and off-road vehicle use - including e-bikes, e-dirt bikes, e-scooters, mopeds, mini-motorcycles, and dirt bikes - have been increasing throughout the Comox Valley.

RCMP say riders caught operating dirt bikes or e-dirt bikes illegally on roadways may face significant penalties under the BC Motor Vehicle Act, including:

• No insurance — $598
• No driver’s licence — $276 and three penalty points
• No helmet — $138 and two penalty points
• Driving without due care — $368 and six penalty points
• Driving without consideration — $196 and six penalty points
• Seven-day vehicle impoundment
• Stunting-related offences

Mounties say some tickets can also affect future licensing for unlicensed youth through ICBC.

RCMP say education and targeted enforcement efforts will continue throughout the region.