E-Scooters: Discover the Essential Rules and Local Control

Electric scooters, commonly called e-scooters, have become increasingly popular in Ontario. They can be a convenient option for short trips and may provide an alternative to driving for some people.

However, e-scooters are not treated the same way as bicycles, e-bikes, or mobility aids. Ontario has specific rules governing their use, and municipalities have an important role in determining where they can be operated.

Before riding an e-scooter, it is important to understand the provincial requirements, check local bylaws, and know where riding is permitted.

Ontario’s E-Scooter Pilot Program

Ontario’s electric kick-scooter pilot program allows municipalities to decide whether to permit e-scooters in their communities.

The current pilot program runs until November 27, 2029.

Municipalities that want to allow e-scooters on their roads must pass a bylaw permitting their use and confirm their participation in the provincial pilot program.

This means e-scooter rules can differ from one Ontario municipality to another.

Before riding, check the rules in the municipality where you plan to use your e-scooter.

Who Can Ride an E-Scooter in Ontario?

There is a minimum age requirement.

You must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-scooter under Ontario’s pilot program.

Riders under 18 must wear a bicycle helmet that meets Ontario’s requirements.

Even when a helmet is not legally required for an adult rider, wearing one is strongly recommended.

Where Can You Ride an E-Scooter?

Where e-scooters are permitted depends on provincial rules and local bylaws.

In municipalities participating in the pilot, e-scooters may generally be permitted on:

• Roads
• Bicycle lanes
• Certain trails or paths where specifically permitted
• Other areas authorized by municipal bylaws

E-scooters are not automatically permitted on sidewalks, trails, paths, walkways, or in public parks. Municipal authorization is required for these locations where applicable.

Never assume that an e-scooter is legal simply because you see someone riding one.

Check local bylaws and posted signs before riding.

E-Scooter Road Rules

When riding where e-scooters are permitted, riders must follow applicable traffic rules and operate responsibly.

Where a bicycle lane is provided, provincial rules generally require e-scooters to be operated in the bicycle lane, subject to applicable municipal rules.

Where there is no bicycle lane, riders may be required to use the shoulder or the right side of the roadway, depending on the circumstances and applicable rules.

Always obey traffic signals, stop signs, road markings, and posted restrictions.

E-Scooter Speed and Equipment Requirements

Not every electric scooter is necessarily permitted under Ontario’s pilot program.

A compliant e-scooter must meet specific provincial requirements.

Among the requirements, an e-scooter must:

• Have a maximum operating speed of 24 km/h
• Have a motor with a maximum output of 500 watts
• Weigh no more than 45 kilograms
• Have two wheels
• Have functioning brakes
• Have a bell or horn
• Have the required front and rear lighting
• Have the required reflective material
• Have wheels no larger than 17 inches
• Have no seat
• Have no pedals

Before purchasing an e-scooter, check that the model meets Ontario’s requirements and any additional requirements imposed by the municipality where you intend to ride.

E-Scooter Safety Tips

E-scooters can be easy to operate, but riders are exposed to falls, collisions, uneven pavement, traffic and other hazards.

Follow these basic safety practices:

• Wear a properly fitted helmet.
• Obey traffic signs and signals.
• Stay alert and watch for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.
• Keep both hands available for controlling the scooter.
• Do not use your phone while riding.
• Slow down when approaching pedestrians, intersections and unfamiliar surfaces.
• Take extra care in rain, snow, ice and other poor weather conditions.
• Use lights and reflective equipment as required.
• Check your brakes and tires regularly.
• Make sure the battery and electrical components are in good condition.

Passengers and Cargo Are Not Allowed

An e-scooter is designed for one rider.

Ontario’s pilot rules prohibit carrying another person on an e-scooter. Riders are also restricted from carrying cargo and from towing another person, vehicle or device.

Do not attempt to modify an e-scooter to carry passengers or additional loads.

Don’t Ride Under the Influence

Never operate an e-scooter while impaired by alcohol, cannabis, drugs or medication that affects your ability to ride safely.

Being on an e-scooter does not make impaired riding safe or exempt a rider from applicable laws.

What Happens After an E-Scooter Collision?

A collision involving an e-scooter may need to be reported to police.

Under Ontario’s pilot rules, a rider involved in a collision with a person, vehicle or animal that results in injury or property damage has reporting obligations.

If you are involved in a collision, make safety the immediate priority and seek medical attention when necessary.

Parking an E-Scooter

Where you park an e-scooter matters.

Do not leave an e-scooter where it blocks:

• Sidewalks
• Accessible entrances
• Curb ramps
• Driveways
• Building entrances
• Emergency access
• Areas intended for pedestrians

Municipalities may have additional rules regarding where e-scooters can be parked.

A scooter that is convenient for one person can become an obstacle or accessibility hazard for someone else.

Common E-Scooter Mistakes to Avoid

Some problems can be avoided by understanding the rules before riding.

Avoid:

• Assuming e-scooters are legal everywhere in Ontario
• Riding on a sidewalk where it is not permitted
• Ignoring municipal bylaws
• Riding an e-scooter that does not meet provincial requirements
• Carrying passengers
• Riding without appropriate safety equipment
• Going too fast for conditions
• Using a phone while riding
• Riding while impaired
• Leaving a scooter blocking a sidewalk or accessible entrance
• Ignoring signs or local restrictions

E-Scooter Gear to Consider

The right equipment can make riding safer and more comfortable.

Helmet

A properly fitted bicycle helmet is one of the most important pieces of protective equipment.

Lights and Reflective Equipment

Being visible is particularly important when riding in low-light conditions. Make sure your e-scooter has the lighting and reflective equipment required by Ontario’s rules.

Additional reflective clothing or accessories can provide greater visibility.

Lock

A sturdy lock can help secure your e-scooter when it needs to be parked.

Storage

A small storage bag can be useful for carrying personal items, but remember that Ontario’s pilot rules restrict the carrying of cargo. Check the applicable requirements before attaching bags or other accessories.

Phone

A phone can be useful in an emergency, but do not use it while riding. Stop in a safe location before checking directions, sending a message or making a call.

Are E-Scooters Environmentally Friendly?

E-scooters can produce fewer direct emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles, particularly when they replace some short car trips.

However, their overall environmental impact also depends on factors such as manufacturing, battery production, charging, maintenance and how often they are used instead of a car.

For that reason, it is more accurate to describe e-scooters as a lower-emission alternative to many short car trips rather than automatically calling every e-scooter environmentally friendly.

Are E-Scooters an Accessibility Option?

E-scooters can provide another transportation option for people who can safely operate them, but they should not be confused with mobility aids such as motorized wheelchairs.

E-scooters require balance, steering and the ability to safely control the device. They are not appropriate for everyone.

Riders should also remember that sidewalks, curb ramps and accessible entrances need to remain clear for pedestrians and people using mobility devices.

Check Local Rules Before You Ride

Ontario provides the overall framework for e-scooter use, but municipalities can establish additional rules.

Before riding in a new community, check the municipality’s official website for:

• Whether the municipality participates in the e-scooter pilot
• Where e-scooters are permitted
• Whether trails or paths are permitted
• Local speed restrictions
• Parking requirements
• Restricted areas
• Additional safety requirements

A rule that applies in one Ontario municipality may not apply in another.

Ride Smart and Stay Informed

E-scooters can be a convenient way to make short trips, but riding responsibly means understanding both provincial regulations and local bylaws.

Before heading out, make sure your e-scooter meets Ontario’s requirements, know where you are legally permitted to ride, follow traffic rules and give pedestrians plenty of space.

The rules can change, and municipalities may have their own requirements. Checking the current rules before you ride is one of the easiest ways to avoid an unnecessary fine and help keep Ontario’s roads and public spaces safer for everyone.

For the most current information, consult the Ontario government’s e-scooter regulations and the municipality where you plan to ride.