Metro Denver area children this holiday season may ask for presents like Denver Broncos tickets, ski trips, video games — or high-powered electric dirt bikes.

Area police department officials aren’t trying to play the Grinch, but they are warning parents against presents that might run afoul of local laws governing the use electric vehicles like scooters, bicycles and dirt bikes.

Local authorities have reported a recent increase of minors improperly operating regular or dirt e-bikes on public roads, sidewalks and at businesses.

“We’re seeing more e-dirt bikes, e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-motorcycles in our community,” Lone Tree Police Lt. Joe Deland said.

“Used in the wrong places,” he added, “they pose a serious risk of injury or accident to riders, pedestrians, and motorists. We’re asking parents to get informed before they buy for their children, especially for the upcoming holiday season.”

Colorado law classifies E-bikes in three categories by speed, throttle and motor wattage.

E-bikes with a maximum top speed of 20 mph are legal to use on designated bike paths, sidewalks and neighborhood roadways conventional cyclists typically use. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph.

E-bikes with pedal assist are known as Class 1, while Class 2 e-bikes are powered by a throttle.

Class 3 e-bikes reach up to 28 mph. They aren’t allowed on sidewalks, paths or trails. Only those 16-years-old or over can operate Class 3 e-bikes.

Larger electric motorcycles or dirt bikes are only allowed for off-road use. They require a drivers license and registration.

Metro Denver cities approach e-bike enforcement differently.

Aurora City Council recently adopted an ordinance charging $250 to parents or guardians of minors caught illegally riding dirt bikes in the city. The measure allows Aurora police to enforce city code when it comes to minors, who previously would just get a warning and no further punishment for riding non-street legal vehicles.

Denver police also enforces illegal use of dirt bikes or e-bikes, according to a Denver Police Department spokesperson.

“Anyone caught using these in Denver’s roadways, walkways, or parks could be cited and fined,” the spokesperson said, adding riders could be arrested or get their bike impounded.

Some jurisdictions pointed to safety and education as top priorities.

“As we head into the holiday season, we understand the excitement that comes with young people receiving new e-bikes,” Lakewood Police Department spokesperson Danny Prien said.

“Most importantly,” he said, “we strongly emphasize the use of appropriate safety equipment, including a properly fitted helmet.”

Douglas County Sheriff’s Office officials said their main concern surrounds education of e-bikes, especially in a county full of open space and trails.

“I’m concerned about the rise in kids riding e-bikes and electric dirt bikes on our public roadways,” Sheriff Darren Weekly said. “These machines may look like toys, but they are powerful and can be extremely dangerous in inexperienced hands.”

“Our goal isn’t to take the fun out of riding,” Weekly added. “It’s to prevent another tragedy and make sure families have the information they need to make safe, informed decisions.”