The Long Beach Police Department is stepping up enforcement against illegal pocket bikes after several recent incidents in the downtown area raised safety concerns. Officials say the small, motorized bikes often seen in large groups and promoted on social media are not only illegal for street use but pose serious risks to riders, drivers, and bystanders.
In a recent targeted operation, LBPD officers seized four pocket bikes, issued citations to three individuals for operating them in prohibited areas, and made one arrest. The department says the enforcement is part of a proactive effort to address the growing problem.
“Pocket bikes are dangerous, illegal, and unwelcome on Long Beach streets,” the department said in a statement. “Individuals found operating these vehicles in our city will be stopped, cited, and their bikes will be seized.”
Police warn that pocket bike use can lead to traffic collisions, injuries, and property damage, while also putting the public and emergency responders at risk. In some cases, riders have reportedly interfered with officers and blocked emergency response efforts.
The LBPD is urging the public to avoid using or promoting pocket bike activity, emphasizing that such vehicles do not meet highway safety standards and cannot be legally operated on city streets, sidewalks, highways, or bicycle paths.
Officers will continue to enforce several California Vehicle Codes, including:
- §473(a) CVC – Defines pocket bikes as not designed for highway use.
- §21710 CVC – Prohibits operation on sidewalks, roadways, highways, or bike paths.
- §22651 CVC – Authorizes impoundment of illegally operated pocket bikes.
- §24003 CVC – Requires all vehicles on public roads to meet safety standards.
The department says its top priority is protecting public safety through education and enforcement. “We want to ensure that everyone—residents, visitors, and officers—can travel safely on our streets,” LBPD said.