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