E-Bike Class I Pilot begins July 1, 2025

The objective of the e-bike class I pilot is to evaluate changes in e-bike usage and how the inclusion of class I e-bikes influences visitors’ watershed experience. Evaluating the inclusion of class I e-bikes on existing roads within the watershed where conventional bicycles are permitted will provide critical data to inform the District’s future watershed management and policy decisions.

The e-bike pilot begins July 1, 2025 and will continue for a period of up to two years. 

Marin Water’s data collection process for the e-bike class I pilot will include: 

• Trail counters at key entrances to collect data to understand the approximate number of bikes on the watershed
• Additional signage at main kiosks with information about how to report illegal activities
• Two rounds of visitor surveys to understand perceptions, experiences and conflicts over the e-bike pilot period 
• Continued monitoring of social trail use
• A bat study during e-bike pilot period 
• Continued annual Norther Spotted Owl monitoring on the watershed

Upon conclusion of the pilot period, the Board will review the collected data and make a determination regarding the permanent status of class I e-bikes on the watershed, including any necessary amendments to District policies and regulations.

The pilot is limited to class I e-bikes on existing watershed roads where conventional bikes and vehicles, as well as e-bikes used pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, are already permitted. Class 2 and 3 e-bikes remain prohibited.

Marin Water has a team of rangers and ranger trainees on its staff who are charged with a range of watershed duties, including to help ensure the safety of visitors, protection of the watershed, and compliance with rules and regulations. 

Ranger patrol efforts will be increased to educate visitors and ensure compliance of rules and regulations. At times, rangers will patrol the pilot areas on bikes to better monitor activity, communicate with users and address problems. Select rangers have received certification through a law enforcement bike patrol course in support of this effort. 

Speed limits of 15 MPH will be maintained on all pilot program roads (and 5 MPH when passing someone), as well as slow zones identified at key locations. Enhanced signage has been installed to educate visitors on expected behavior and allowed use. 

Marin Water rangers will monitor social trails in the vicinity of the pilot program roads to evaluate illegal use. Rangers will also be doing proactive patrols to help educate, collect data relating to visitor use and enforce regulations. Data from these patrols will be integrated into the pilot program monitoring documents.

Marin Water will be collecting data throughout the pilot program period and will publish data periodically as it becomes available. The pilot program will need to run for a period of time before data can be collected and shared. The initial data will be associated with the visitor survey. At the end of the pilot program, a summary report will be prepared.

All visitors will play an active role in making this program a success. In addition to the efforts Marin Water is taking to educate visitors on rules and expectations, we are also looking to our partners and community groups to help educate visitors on how to recreate responsibly on the watershed, comply with our regulations and support other visitors. If this program is a success, it will lead to an improved experience for all different user groups. Through meaningful conversation about visitor access and restoration opportunities, Marin Water aims to update its policies with long-term improvements to its system and stewardship of the Mt. Tam Watershed.

Marin Water reached a settlement agreement related to legal challenges over its e-bike and trail share pilot programs. As part of the agreement, the District rescinded both pilot programs, which were adopted in September 2024, in exchange for a dismissal of the lawsuit. The agreement also provided that the Board could proceed with a revised e-bike pilot program, permitting class I e-bikes on watershed roads where conventional bikes are currently allowed. The Board of Directors approved these actions at its May 6, 2025 regular meeting.

Marin Water will continue to explore options for bike access on select single-track trails on the watershed, and this will be done as part of a broader planning effort that will include community input throughout the process. Any future action in this area will be guided by additional California Environmental Quality Act review.

For more information, read Marin Water's May 5, 2025 official statement. 

Marin Water’s volunteer program provides opportunities for the community to contribute to preserving our water supply, protecting biodiversity and caring for our shared natural resources. From improving trails, restoring habitat, and protecting endangered species, Marin Water offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to match your skills, interests and availability. 

You can do your part to support the pilot program by participating in Marin Water’s bolstered community trail stewardship events. To sign up to receive monthly volunteer opportunities email or register for an upcoming volunteer event, visit Volunteer Opportunities.

Marin Water created the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed Fund in 1996 to give watershed visitors the opportunity to help protect the mountain through a tax-deductible donation. Projects supported by donations to the fund are conducted with sensitivity to community concerns. Marin Water customers also have the option of making a donation to the fund on their water bills. Online donations can be made through the Marin Community Foundation’s website or by mailing a check to Marin Community Foundation, Attn: Mt. Tamalpais Watershed Fund, 5 Hamilton Landing, Suite 200, Novato, CA 94949. For more information, please call the Marin Community Foundation at 415.464.2500.

Use this online form to provide feedback and observations about the e-bike class I pilot program. Marin Water staff will review all messages, though may not follow up directly to every submission. 

Subscribe here to receive email notifications and updates about the recreation management planning process, including information about stakeholder engagement opportunities. By subscribing, you will also receive Marin Water’s monthly e-news update containing information about water- and money-saving customer resources and rebates, the Mt. Tam Watershed, water supply and more.