E-scooters

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, 2029.

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, 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

After the pilot

We will use the information from municipalities to decide if e-scooters will be allowed permanently in Ontario. If they are, we will set rules about using them.

Municipalities

Municipalities that want e-scooters on their roads must:

  • pass a bylaw to allow their use
  • confirm their participation in the pilot by emailing the Ministry of Transportation at REO@ontario.ca
  • share a copy of their by-law

Each participating municipality must:

  • send the ministry submit an annual report on how the pilot program is working locally
  • follow municipal guidelines that outline best practices for the program

Duty to report a collision

If you’re riding an e-scooter and it is involved in a collision with a person, vehicle or animal and causes injury or property damage, you must:

  • report the incident to the police
  • provide any information requested about the event

How to participate

  • Check with your municipality to find out whether e-scooters are allowed
  • If they are, find out what rules and requirements apply

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

Rules for e-scooter riders

To ride an e-scooter in the pilot program, you must:

  • be at least 16 years old
  • remain standing while riding
  • wear a bicycle helmet if you are under 18

You cannot:

  • carry passengers or cargo
  • ride an e-scooter on controlled access highways (for example, 400-series highways, QEW, and more)

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).

For the full list of pilot requirements, please see Ontario Regulation Electric Kick-Scooters.