An example of an e-scooter is pictured below.
The pilot program regulation only allows e-scooters to operate on roadways under the jurisdiction of a municipality if the municipality approves their use in its by-laws. Escooters are prohibited on sidewalks, trails, and in public parks unless a municipality approves their use on these facilities in its by-laws.
Use of e-scooters is subject to a number of rules laid out in the e-scooter pilot program regulation; these rules apply to all e-scooters province-wide. A summary of key rules in the regulation is below:
Vehicle rules:
- o E-scooters must have two wheels arranged longitudinally and must have a rider platform and handlebars (i.e. vehicles such as Segways and hoverboards are not considered e-scooters and continue to be illegal for use in the right-of-way).
- o E-scooter speed is limited to 24 kilometres per hour and motor power is limited to 500 watts.
- o E-scooter weight, including batteries, is limited to 45 kilograms.
- o E-scooters must be equipped with front and rear lights if they are operated from one hour before sunset to one hour after sunrise.
- o E-scooters must be equipped with a horn or bell.
- o E-scooters cannot be fitted with seats, baskets, or trailers.
Rider rules:
- o E-scooter operators must be 16 or older.
- o E-scooter operators under 18 must wear helmets.
- o Passengers and cargo are prohibited on e-scooters.
Rules of the road:
- o E-scooters are prohibited on controlled-access highways (and where prohibited by by-law).