The Langley City Council has formally adopted rules that will temporarily permit the use of skateboards in residential areas of town.

The council voted unanimously to approve the ordinance package Tuesday at City Hall. They essentially lift what had been a city-wide ban on skateboards, roller skates or any other human-powered devices in the city.

Bicycles were not included in the rule changes as they have always been allowed in all parts of the city.

The lifted ban, which still prohibits the use of skateboards in commercial areas, is only temporary. The council’s decision specifies a one-year trial period; if problems occur during that time the council may choose not to make them permanent in 2013.

The trial period was a concession from council members worried about public safety. A strong recommendation for the use of helmets and other safety gear was also included in the temporary ordinance.