The City is participating in the provincial Electric Kick Scooter (e-scooter) Pilot Project, along with neighbouring municipalities on the North Shore and in Metro Vancouver.
The pilot was first approved by Council in March 2022. It was renewed by the province in 2024 and is currently planned to continue until April 2028.
The pilot program allows privately-owned e-scooters to be used on mobility lanes, multi-use pathways and roads with a speed limit of 50km/hr or less within the City. E-scooter share programs are not permitted at this time.
E-scooters provide an environmentally-sensitive and cost-effective transportation option. This program directly supports our Mobility Strategy, which recommends improved access to micromobility options.
Where can you travel with e-scooters?
During the pilot, e-scooters can be used on:
- Mobility lanes (i.e. which accommodate a range of micro-mobility options like bicycles, scooters, e-bikes, and cargo bikes)
- Multi-use pathways (e.g. Spirit Trail, Green Necklace)
- Roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less
Tips:
- E-scooters can be ridden where cycling is allowed.
- Always ride in the cycling lane if available. When on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less and no cycling is present, stay as far right as possible.
- No riding on sidewalks or crosswalks unless a sign or traffic control device permits it.
Permitted areas are shown on the map below:
> Download PDF of map
What rules apply to e-scooters?
E-scooter riders must:
- Be 16 years of age or older
- Wear a safety helmet
- Slow down when riding near pedestrians on multi-use pathways
- Use a bell or horn when passing other riders or pedestrians
- Indicate when they are turning
- Ride single-file
- Not tow or carry another person or device
- Not use an e-scooter while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Adhere to local regulations about where e-scooters can be ridden
- Use “hook” left turns or dismount and walk through the intersection like a pedestrian
E-scooter bylaws and regulations carry fines under the Motor Vehicle Act and are enforced by the RCMP. For more information about the safety rules you must follow, please visit the BC E-scooter pilot website.
What is an e-scooter?
E-scooters are electrically powered kick scooters that have a standing platform between the front and rear wheels and a steering handlebar that acts directly on the front wheel(s) of the device.
In BC, e-scooters may have two to four wheels (no more than 430mm in diameter) and are subject to the following provincial requirements:
- The device must have a maximum speed of 25 km/h
- Motor power output must not exceed 500W
- Must be equipped with an adequate braking system, stopping the device within 7.5 meters
- Must have a bell or horn
- Front and rear lights must be turned on between sunset and sunrise (lights may also be worn by the rider)
- Must not be equipped with a seat, pedals, or structure enclosing
- Must not exceed 45kg, including motors and batteries
Tips:
Contact Info
Feedback or questions regarding the e-scooter pilot may be directed to the City at bikeshare@cnv.org.