Harrisville Borough Police Department

Harrisville Borough Police Department Serving Harrisville Borough and Marion Township in Butler County, Pennsylvania. Lieutenant/ Officer in Charge Jordan Waclav. Page not monitored 24/7

06/13/2026

📢 COMMUNITY NOTICE: E-Bike Regulations & Safety in Harrisville Borough 📢

The Harrisville Borough Police Department has recently received yet another influx of complaints regarding the operation of electric bicycles (E-bikes) throughout town. These concerns involve near-misses with pedestrians, high speeds on sidewalks, disregard for traffic signage and minors operating these vehicles.

We love seeing our community outside and enjoying alternative modes of transportation, but safety must come first. To keep our streets and sidewalks safe for everyone, please review the current laws regarding E-bikes in Pennsylvania:

🚴‍♂️ The Rules of the Road

•They are not permitted on Borough sidewalks where pedestrian traffic is present.
•Under Pennsylvania law, no one under the age of 16 may operate an E-bike.
•Legal E-bikes must have an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 horsepower) and a maximum speed of 20 mph on a level surface when powered solely by the motor.
•Helmets are REQUIRED for riders under 12 on standard bikes, but we strongly recommend helmets for all E-bike riders due to the higher speeds involved. Lights and reflectors are required if riding after dark.

🛑 What is NOT Allowed

Modified E-bikes that exceed 20 mph, or electric dirt bikes/sur-rons that do not meet the legal definition of an E-bike, are considered unregistered motor vehicles. These cannot legally be operated on Borough streets, sidewalks, or in public parks.

All operators of motor-driven cycles and e-bikes are strictly subject to the duties and regulations applicable to drivers under the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code (Title 75).

A message to Parents from us:

Many of the complaints we receive involve young teens riding E-bikes carelessly, recklessly, dangerously, or carrying multiple passengers. If you purchased an E-bike for your child, please ensure they are at least 16 years old, understand the rules of the road and are operating the bike safely.

Our officers will be actively monitoring these high-traffic areas and issuing warnings or citations where necessary to ensure public safety.

06/08/2026

🚨 COMMUNITY NOTICE: Off-Road vehicle Enforcement in Marion Township 🚨

The Harrisville Borough Police Department has received an influx of complaints from residents regarding dirt bikes, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) as well as Side by Sides operating at a careless, reckless and a illegal manner on public roadways within Marion Township.

We hear your concerns clearly: this activity is a major safety hazard for both the riders and other motorists, and the late-night noise is a severe disruption to our neighborhoods.

⚠️ Effective Immediately:
There will be heavy enforcement targeting these riders. Operating an ATV or dirt bike on any public roadway or right-of-way is strictly illegal. Officers will be actively patrolling the area, using discretion and violators will face strict legal consequences, including heavy fines, and citations based off the nature of the violations.

06/04/2026

ATTENTION ALL: Paul Miller’s Law" Takes Full Effect Tomorrow, June 5th 2026!

Beginning tomorrow, Friday, June 5, 2026, the educational grace period for Pennsylvania’s hands-free driving law officially ends, and officers will begin issuing active citations and fines.

For the past year, law enforcement across the Commonwealth has issued written warnings to educate the public. Starting tomorrow, drivers caught holding or supporting an interactive mobile device while operating a vehicle will face a base fine of $50, which can total nearly $200 after court costs and fees.

⚠️ Important Reminder: Distracted driving is a primary offense. Officers can pull you over solely for seeing a phone or mobile device in your hand.

This crucial legislation is named in honor of Paul Miller Jr., who was tragically killed by a distracted driver in 2010. Let's work together to honor his legacy, protect our community, and keep our local roadways safe.

❌ WHAT IS BANNED?
•Holding or supporting a phone, tablet, or smart device with any part of your body.
•Texting, scrolling, emailing, typing, or browsing social media.
•Watching or recording videos.
•Handling your device while stopped at a red light, stop sign, or sitting in traffic.

✅ WHAT IS ALLOWED?
•Hands-free technology such as Bluetooth, voice commands, or built-in vehicle infotainment systems.
•GPS navigation, provided the device is securely mounted to the dash or windshield and not held.
• Single-touch functions to answer or end a call, as long as you do not hold the phone.
• Emergency calls to 911 to report a crime, accident, or medical emergency.

06/03/2026

🐻 Bear Sightings in Marion Township 🐻

The Harrisville Borough Police Department has received numerous reports of black bears and cubs all through and around Marion Township. Please give them plenty of space, as mother bears are highly protective of their young.

To prevent unwanted encounters, please take these quick precautions:

•Secure Your Trash: Keep garbage cans inside a garage or shed until the morning of pickup.

•Remove Bird Feeders: Bring feeders inside temporarily, as birdseed is a major attractant.

•Feed Pets Indoors: Do not leave pet food outside, and supervise pets when they are in the yard or outside in general.

•Clean Outdoor Grills: Wipe down grills after each use and store them in a secure area.

🚶👀If You See a Bear:

Do not approach or feed it. Never get between a mother and her cubs.

If a bear is causing damage or poses an immediate threat, please contact the department or the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Let's keep Marion Township safe for everyone!

05/22/2026

🚨 ATTENTION HARRISVILLE RESIDENTS AND PASSERSBY’S🚨

The Harrisville Volunteer Fire Department is currently out on N. And S. Main Street conducting their annual Boot Drive fundraiser!

If you are traveling through the area today, please keep the following in mind:

•Slow Down and Stay Alert: Watch for firefighters in the roadway collecting donations.
•Expect Minor Delays: Give yourself a little extra time or consider taking an alternate route if you are in a rush.
•Drive with Extra Caution: Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions to ensure the safety of our first responders.

Why it matters: 🧑‍🚒

Every dollar dropped into the boot goes directly toward funding vital, life-saving gear and essential equipment for our local fire department. Supporting them directly enhances the safety of our entire community and the nearby communities that they often assist.

If you are passing through, please consider dropping a donation into the boot to support the brave men and women who protect our communities every single day.

05/18/2026

Come out for Harrisville American Legion Post 852’s Memorial Day Ceremony at the post pavilion at noon! See flyer for more details!

05/05/2026

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05/05/2026

🚧 Heads Up, Harrisville! 🚧

Good morning, everyone! Starting this morning at 8:00 AM, our Borough maintenance workers and our Police Officers will be out on the roads painting crosswalks to keep our community safe and vibrant.

Work will be taking place along:
📍 North Main Street
📍 South Main Street
📍 Route 58

Please use extra caution when traveling through these areas. We ask that you remain patient if you encounter brief delays- Our teams are working hard to get the job done quickly and safely!

If you see our Officers or maintenance crew out there, be sure to give them a friendly smile and a wave. 👋😊

04/17/2026

🚨 PUBLIC SAFETY ANNOUNCEMENT: HERO FLAG REPLACEMENT 🚨

Sunday, 4/19/2026, you’ll see the American Legion out and about in the Borough as they work to replace our Hero Flags. We are proud to see these banners flying, and we want to make sure the transition goes smoothly and safely.

If you are driving through town on Sunday morning, please:
✅ Slow down when approaching work areas.
✅ Stay alert for volunteers on the shoulder and main roads.
✅ Give them a wave for their hard work!

Address

215 S Main Street
Harrisville, PA
16038

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