Electric scooters, or e-scooters, are becoming popular for getting around in Canada. But, the rules for riding them are different depending on what province, and sometimes even what city you live in. Let's take a quick look at where you can ride e-scooters and what you need to know about the laws.
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Alberta: E-scooters are legal in some cities like Edmonton and Calgary, where pilot projects have been implemented. Regulations may vary within each city.
British Columbia: E-scooters are not explicitly legalized at the provincial level, but some municipalities like Vancouver have pilot projects.
Ontario: As of January 2022, Ontario allowed e-scooters on roads and bicycle lanes, but specific municipalities could choose whether or not to allow them.
Quebec: As of 2023, Quebec has legalized e-scooters. But there are certain laws such as needing to be over the age of 14, wearing a helmet, and more.
All Other Provinces & Territories: E-Scooter are not explicitly legalized, please refer to your local bylaws for more information.
Every city has different laws for electric scooters. For example, e-scooters are only permissible on private property in Toronto, not on public roads. For more information on Toronto’s current laws on e-scooters, check out our blog here.
But cities like Ottawa have e-scooters legalized with some laws and regulations in place. So we recommend you research e-scooter laws for your city to see if they’ve opted into a pilot program and what the regulations are.
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Laws and Regulations
Speed Limit: Most provinces impose speed limits for electric scooters, and the limit is typically 24 km/h.
Helmet Requirement: Many provinces require electric scooter riders to wear helmets, especially for riders under a certain age. Helmet laws vary by province, so riders should check local regulations.
Age Restrictions: Some provinces have age restrictions for electric scooter riders. For example, in Ontario, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-scooter.
Licensing and Registration: In most provinces, you do not need a licence to ride. In some municipalities, electric scooters may require registration and insurance, similar to other motor vehicles.
Parking Regulations: Municipalities may have specific rules regarding where electric scooters can be parked. Riders should be mindful of designated parking areas and avoid blocking pedestrian pathways. In general, try not to ride on the sidewalk.
Enforcement: Enforcement of electric scooter regulations varies across jurisdictions, with some municipalities implementing fines for violations such as riding on sidewalks or exceeding speed limits.
What the Future Has in Store
As electric scooters continue to gain popularity in Canada, the future outlook for their legal status and regulations is subject to ongoing evolution. Here are some potential trends and developments to watch for:
Regulatory Updates: With increasing demand for electric scooters as a sustainable transportation option, policymakers may revisit existing regulations to accommodate their use more effectively. This could include amendments to speed limits, helmet requirements, and age restrictions, as well as the establishment of clearer guidelines for licensing and registration.
Expanded Infrastructure: As cities adapt to accommodate alternative forms of transportation, we may see the development of dedicated infrastructure for electric scooters, including expanded bike lanes and designated parking areas. These improvements can enhance safety and convenience for riders while reducing conflicts with pedestrians and other road users.
Public Acceptance: Public attitudes towards electric scooters are likely to play a significant role in shaping future regulations. Continued advocacy and education efforts can help promote acceptance of electric scooters as a legitimate mode of transportation, leading to more favourable policies and regulations.
While electric scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, riders must be aware of the legal framework governing their use in Canada. By understanding where electric scooters are legal to ride and adhering to relevant laws and regulations, riders can enjoy a safe and compliant riding experience.