09/23/2024
An electric kick-scooter (e-scooter) is a vehicle that has:
two wheels (one at the front and one at the back)
a platform to stand on
a handlebar for steering
an electric motor that does not exceed 500 watts
a maximum speed of 24 km/h on a level surface
E-scooters come in different styles, weights and speed capabilities.
About the pilot program
Ontario’s e-scooter pilot program allows municipalities to choose where and how e-scooters may be used.
The pilot is running from January 1, 2020 to November 27, 2024.
The pilot program sets out requirements for:
helmets
minimum age for riders
weight and speed restrictions
Municipalities that choose to allow e-scooters are responsible for:
where e-scooters may be operated (for example, on roads and bike paths, in parks and on trails)
where e-scooters may park
whether a business permit or licence is required for e-scooter companies
whether insurance is required (the type and coverage)
how people can give feedback on e-scooter use in their municipality
other considerations relevant to the use of e-scooters in the municipality
We will use the information gathered from municipalities during the pilot to help determine if e-scooters will be allowed permanently in Ontario and if so, what the rules will be regarding their operation.
Check with your municipality to find out whether e-scooters are allowed and if so, what the requirements are.
Municipalities
Municipalities that want to allow e-scooters to operate on their roads must pass bylaws to permit their use and set out specific requirements based on what is best for their communities.
The municipal guidelines outline best practices for municipalities participating in the pilot program.
Municipalities must inform the Ministry of Transportation that they are participating in the pilot, by contacting [email protected]. Municipalities are also required to investigate all collisions involving e-scooters on their roads and provide written reports, including the details of each collision, to the ministry.
Requirements
E-scooter requirements
E-scooters allowed under the pilot must have:
a maximum speed of 24 km/h on a level surface
a maximum weight of 45 kg
a maximum power output of 500 watts
two wheels and brakes
a horn or bell
at least one white light on front, one red light on rear and reflective material on sides
a maximum wheel diameter of 17 inches
E-scooters must not have:
pedals
a seat
a basket
Operator requirements
To operate an e-scooter under the terms of the pilot you must:
be at least 16 years old
stand at all times while riding
wear a bicycle helmet if under 18 years old
You are not permitted to:
carry passengers
carry cargo
operate an e-scooter on controlled access highways (for example, 400-series highways, QEW, etc.)
Other requirements
Similar to bicycles, all Highway Traffic Act rules of the road apply when riding e-scooters. Penalties will also apply to violations of the pilot regulation (fine of $250 to $2,500).
