Gilbert, Ariz. – As the 2026–2027 school year begins, the Gilbert Police Department is increasing its efforts to keep students safe on their way to and from school.

Beginning this week, families will see an increased presence of officers around school campuses. This proactive approach includes enhanced traffic enforcement, expanded educational outreach, and community engagement initiatives designed to support a safe school year for everyone.

School Safety Tips 

• Watch for children walking and biking to school. Young students can be more difficult to see.
• Familiarize yourself with your school's drop off and pick up zones. Do not block roadways or neighborhood streets.
• Follow posted speed limits in and around school zones.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions such as phones or headphones, especially during busy morning and afternoon traffic.
• Do not enter a crosswalk until the roadway is completely clear.
• Always yield to school buses, and remember: drivers must come to a complete stop when a bus has its stop arm extended.

Gilbert’s newly adopted e-bike, e-scooter, and motorized device ordinances provide clearer rules to help riders, families, and drivers stay safe.

Understanding the difference:

• Electric bicycles (Class 1, 2, or 3)
  Must have fully operable pedals and an electric motor under 750 watts.

• Electric motor‑driven cycles (e-motorcycles)
  These look similar to e‑bikes but can reach high speeds upwards of 30 mph. Requirements to operate an e-motorcycle include:

  • Rider must be at least 16 and must have a driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement
  • ADOT‑issued plate and registration
  • Vehicle insurance

New 2026 ordinance rules include:

• Mandatory helmets for all e-bike and e-scooter riders under 18.
• 15 mph speed limit on sidewalks, parks, and multi‑use paths.
• New age restrictions:
  • No person under 12 may operate Class 1 or Class 2 e‑bikes or electric scooter.
  • No person under 16 may operate a Class 3 e‑bike
• Riders must yield to pedestrians and provide an audible warning before passing, use lights at night, and follow posted restrictions in areas where certain devices are prohibited.

For full details on device types and rules, visit gilbertaz.gov/KnowYourRide.

School District Safety Tip Lines:

If your child is experiencing safety concerns on or off campus, encourage them to report any safety concerns immediately to a trusted adult, teacher, or a school resource officer!

• Gilbert Public Schools | Online tip line
• Higley Unified School District | Call or text 480-573-8808 | Email safe.hotline@husd.org 
• Chandler Unified School District | Call 480-279-SAFE (7233) | Email speakup@gse.cusd80.com

Contact Gilbert PD:

• Non-emergencies: 480-503-6500
• Dial or text 9-1-1 in emergencies
• Report safety concerns at our anonymous tip line at gilbertaz.gov/SubmitATip

Have a great and safe school year!