E-scooters

With the number of e-scooters, both privately-owned and hired, increasing in Canberra, all riders must ensure they are riding safely and adhering to all relevant rules and laws.

E-scooters can be ridden in many areas, but users have to remember they are responsible for their own safety, and that of others.

Riders should be aware that:

• it is legal to use e-scooters on shared paths and footpaths; however, riders must give way to pedestrians
• persons under 12 years of age must be supervised by an adult when using an e-scooter
• a rider cannot carry a passenger
• e-scooters are not permitted on roads or on-road bicycle lanes, except on residential streets where there is no footpath
• e-scooters are also not permitted along the light rail corridor and users should always obey pedestrian traffic lights when crossing at lights
• an approved bicycle helmet must be worn and the e-scooter must have a warning device such as a bell
• the e-scooters or the rider, must be fitted with a light and reflectors if the rider plans to use the e-scooter at night or in inclement weather
• you cannot be under the influence of alcohol or a drug or use a mobile phone while riding
• the speed limit for an e-scooter on a shared footpath or cycle path is 25km/h, 15km/h for footpaths and 10km/h when at a crossing.

Fines apply for offences occurred and for e-scooter riders failing to follow the legislation.

For more information on using e-scooters please visit the Transport Canberra e-scooter webpage. The full legislation can be found at Section 244D to 244J in ACT Road Transport (Road Rules) Regulation 2017