E-Scooter Information

Did you know that no municipality in the County of Lambton has opted to participate in the E-Scooter Pilot Program? What does this mean for e-scooter users? Check out the age, safety, and other requirements, but please note Petrolia does not permit e-scooters on roads.

Electric kick-style scooters (e-scooters)

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

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 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

• share a copy of their by-law

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

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

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.