Local councils move to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters

Local governments in Wellington and Prince Rupert are addressing safety concerns and regulatory ambiguities regarding micromobility devices, such as e-bikes and e-scooters.

The Wellington Village Council has approved new ordinances to regulate electric-powered devices following an increase in accidents involving children. The new rules aim to restrict where these devices can be used and expand the authority of deputies to enforce regulations on public rights-of-way. These measures follow previous attempts at state-level regulation in Florida that were vetoed by the governor.

In Prince Rupert, the city council is seeking clarity on how to manage the use of electric kick scooters. Currently, the city is not part of British Columbia’s Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project, making the use of such devices technically illegal. Council members have expressed concern over underage riders and sidewalk safety, and have invited the RCMP to a meeting in September to discuss enforcement and responsibilities.