2025 Electric Scooter Law and Regulation In Canada

Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular in Canada due to their convenience and flexibility. If you're considering riding an e-scooter in Canada, you might find one thing a bit frustrating: there's no single set of rules for riding one across Canada. You'll find that regulations vary from province to province, and even from municipality to municipality within the same province. This isn't intentional, but regulations naturally adapt to local conditions, depending on road width, traffic volume, and even weather conditions.

But for those of us who ride e-scooters, whether you rely on them for daily commuting or just want to take them for a weekend spin, it's important to understand the specific requirements of your city before you go. Complying with the relevant regulations can help you avoid unnecessary hassles and provide greater peace of mind. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the relevant regulations in each province. Let's take a look.

E-Scooter Laws in Different Provinces in Canada

Electric Scooter Laws In Alberta

Age:

Calgary requires riders to be 18 years of age or older to operate an electric scooter; Edmonton requires riders to be 16 years of age or older.

License:

There are no specific requirements for a valid driver's license to ride a scooter.

Helmet:

The law does not mandate the use of helmets, but for safety reasons, it is strongly recommended.

Lighting:

Personal electric scooters are classified as general under Alberta regulations and are subject to general standards. Therefore, scooters should be equipped with at least one headlight in front and a red taillight at the rear for use at night and before sunrise.

Road Use:

Shared electric scooters can be operated on most sidewalks in Calgary, as long as they do not disturb other pedestrians. They can also be used on bike lanes and other quiet or lightly trafficked roads. Edmonton is more stringent, explicitly prohibiting the use of electric scooters on sidewalks and only permitting them on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less.

Scooter Usage:

Scooter spaces are limited to one person, and carrying passengers or cargo is prohibited.

Parking requirements:

The City of Calgary requires e-scooters to be parked next to "edge zones" and leave at least two meters of sidewalk space; Edmonton prohibits riders from parking e-scooters in areas that obstruct sidewalks, paths, and access to doors and businesses.

It's important to note that under current Alberta traffic laws, personal electric scooters remain prohibited from riding on city sidewalks or trails. However, no specific riding regulations have been issued solely for personal electric scooters, leaving this area in a legal gray zone for now. Most importantly, when riding an electric scooter, we must comply with the specific traffic rules of the city we're in. This includes obeying road signs and stop signs, yielding to pedestrians and passing vehicles, and riding at low speeds safely.

(Source: https://www.canlii.org/en/ab/laws/regu/alta-reg-122-2009/latest/alta-reg-122-2009.html)

Electric Scooter Laws In British Columbia

Age:

Must be at least 16 years of age

Helmet:

Mandatory use of a safety helmet approved under Canadian transportation regulations.

Lighting:

British Columbia requires electric scooters to have front and rear lights activated between sunset and sunrise. Front lights can be replaced by a light worn by the operator.

Speed Limits:

When traveling below 50 km/h, e-scooters may use dedicated lanes. Where no dedicated lane exists, ride on the right side of the road safely, unless traffic control devices direct otherwise. Above 50 km/h, e-scooters are prohibited on speed-restricted roads or shoulders and must use designated bike lanes. Additionally, on clean, paved, and level surfaces, the maximum speed for electric scooters is 25 km/h.

Road Use:

E-scooters can be ridden on public roads in participating communities. Specifically, in Kelowna, they are permitted on streets, bike paths, and multi-use pathways; in Richmond, they are permitted on local roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less, bike lanes, paved roads, and designated parks; and in Vancouver, they are permitted on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less, greenways, bike lanes, seawalls, and trails in parks where bicycling is permitted. E-scooters are permitted on certain highways outside of municipal boundaries, but must meet the following requirements: the highway must not be within the municipal boundary and must have a bike lane. You must always ride in the bike lane and not on other parts of the roadway or shoulder, including sidewalks or crosswalks.

Scooter Usage:

The electric scooter's motor continuous output power rating must not exceed 500 watts, and the total vehicle weight must not exceed 45 KG (including battery and motor). Only one person may ride an electric scooter at a time. No passengers, towed persons, or equipment may be carried.

Parking requirements:

Kelowna prohibits blocking sidewalks when parking scooters; Vancouver mandates parking within designated parking zones.

Other:

Wherever riding, you must ring a bell or horn when approaching or passing pedestrians, cyclists, or users of other equipment. You must not ride beside another person operating a bicycle or electric kick scooter, except to pass.

In general, electric scooters may be ridden on public roads within participating communities in British Columbia. Limited use is permitted outside municipal boundaries, subject to any rules established by the municipal authority. Note that riding an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or while using a mobile phone or other electronic device, is illegal. Violating these regulations may result in fines, impoundment of the device, and penalties of up to $2,000.

(Source: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/cycling/electric-kick-scooter-rules)

Electric Scooter Laws In Manitoba

As electric scooters have become a common mode of transportation, Manitoba launched pilot projects for private and shared electric scooters as early as 2022. However, due to the lack of established general regulations and clear road planning, coupled with safety concerns, specific legal provisions for electric scooter usage have yet to be finalized. As a result, riding them on roads and sidewalks is generally prohibited. For specific permitted areas, individuals should consult local authorities regarding applicable regulations.

Electric Scooter Laws In New Brunswick

Age:

Must be at least 14 years old. Riders under 18 must comply with additional regulations: Hold a Class 9 driver's license and obtain parental consent to operate an electric scooter.

Helmet:

Mandatory while riding.

Lighting:

E-scooters must meet safety and technical standards. This includes ensuring the vehicle is equipped with two independent braking systems, lighting devices, mirrors, and an audible warning signal.

Speed Limit:

No speed limit when equipped with headlights capable of illuminating 100 meters; otherwise, maximum speed is 60 km/h.
Road Use: Must be ridden only on highways; riding on any type of road or sidewalk is prohibited.

Scooter Usage:

Scooters may only be ridden alone; no passengers may be carried, and no scooters may be towed with other vehicles, bicycles, or other equipment, including another scooter. Scooters may not be modified in any way.
Other: Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited.
Moncton, NB, has recently raised more questions about scooters at its city council meeting. The city is working to develop and implement more comprehensive scooter regulations, and detailed regulations are expected soon. It's always best to consult your local municipal government before riding an electric scooter.

(Source: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/news/2024/rcmp-urges-caution-scooters-new-brunswick)

Electric Scooter Laws In Newfoundland and Labrador

Age:

Riders must be 16 years of age or older and possess a driver's license.

Helmet:

Riders must wear a Canadian-approved bicycle helmet.

Lighting:

Electric scooters must be equipped with a horn, front and rear lights, and reflectors.

Speed Limit:

Must be less than 50 km/h.

Road Use:

Electric scooters may be used on local roads, bike paths, and park trails as long as they maintain a speed of less than 50 km/h.

Scooter Usage:

Scooters must weigh no more than 55 kg, with a maximum motor power of 1500 watts.

Electric scooters are classified as mopeds in Newfoundland and Labrador and have the same legal status as electric bicycles. Currently, there are no separate regulations for electric scooters. Please refer to local regulations for specific details.

Electric Scooter Laws In Northwest Territories

Age:

Riders must be at least 18 years old to operate an e-scooter.

Helmet:

All e-scooter riders must wear a securely fastened, approved bicycle helmet.

Speed Limit:

Maximum speed is 15 km/h.

Road Use:

Only government-approved shared e-scooters are permitted on sidewalks, shared roads, bike lanes, and public spaces. Private e-scooters may only be used on private property.

Parking Requirements:

Carrying passengers on shared e-scooters is prohibited. Using mobile phones while riding is prohibited.

In the Northwest Territories, private electric scooters are generally restricted to private property. If a private electric scooter has a power output below 200 watts and a maximum speed not exceeding 10 km/h, it may be permitted in certain public areas subject to specific regulations. Additionally, riders using private electric scooters in public areas without authorization may face fines of up to $1,500 for operating an unregistered and uninsured vehicle.

Electric Scooter Laws In Nova Scotia

Age:

Riders must be at least 16 years old; no driver's license required.

Speed limits:

Maximum speed of 32 km/h; prohibited from exceeding 25 km/h on roads or bike lanes; prohibited from exceeding 15 km/h on multi-use paths.

Road Use:

Electric scooters are permitted on bike lanes, multi-use pathways within streets, and other roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or below.

Scooter Usage:

Motor output must not exceed 500 watts.

Parking Requirements:

No person shall park, stop, store, or leave an electric scooter on highways, roads, sidewalks, trails, paths, walkways, fairgrounds, or multi-use roads in a manner that obstructs pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles.

Other:

Halifax Regional Municipality prohibits owners from abandoning electric scooters on any municipal property. Additionally, traffic authorities may establish signage specifying maximum permitted speeds for electric scooters in areas where their operation is legally permitted.

(Source: https://cdn.halifax.ca/sites/default/files/documents/city-hall/legislation-by-laws/by-lawm-300.pdf)

Electric Scooter Laws In Nunavut

Nunavut currently lacks specific laws and regulations for electric scooters, unlike other Canadian provinces and territories. Therefore, they are generally considered motorized vehicles. This means electric scooters cannot be used on public roads or sidewalks in Nunavut. Note that Nunavut communities may have their own bylaws regarding electric scooter use. Before riding, always consult your local government for detailed regulations or prohibitions in your area.

Electric Scooter Laws In Ontario

E-scooters are subject to detailed regulations in Ontario. The specific regulations for their use and parking on public roads are determined by the municipalities where pilot programs are being implemented, including but not limited to Toronto, Ottawa, and London. Therefore, we will provide a breakdown of the regulations for Ontario and specific municipalities.

Below is general information about electric scooters in Ontario:

Age:

Operators must be at least 16 years old and must always stand while riding.

Helmet:

Children under 18 must wear a bicycle helmet.

Lighting:

Electric scooters must have at least one white light on the front, one red light on the rear, and reflective material on the sides.

Speed Limit:

Maximum speed on level ground is 24 km/h.

Scooter Usage:

Maximum weight of 45 kg, maximum motor output of 500 watts, maximum wheel diameter of 17 inches.

Equipment requirements:

Two tires and brakes; a horn or bell; and no pedals, seat, or basket.

Parking Requirements:

Must be parked in a municipally approved parking area.

Other:

Scooters may not be used to transport passengers or cargo, and may not be used for commercial purposes. Electric scooters are not permitted on sidewalks. Furthermore, electric scooters are prohibited on controlled-access highways (e.g., the 400 series highways and the QEW). Operating an electric scooter while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited, and may result in a Criminal Code offense.

Specific Municipal Road Use and Parking Requirements for E-Scooters

Toronto

Age:

16 years and older with a valid driver's license

Speed Limit:

Maximum speed is 32 km/h.

Road Use:

Riders may operate e-scooters on certain city arterial roads and designated paths. These include, but are not limited to, roads with a maximum speed limit of 50 km/h; multi-use trails; and bike lanes. Prohibited Use: Sidewalks; crosswalks; and Toronto's central district (bordered by Queen Street West, Jarvis Street, Lake Shore Boulevard, and Bathurst Street).

Parking Requirements:

No person shall park, store, or abandon an e-scooter on a highway or sidewalk.

Other:

Toronto does not mandate insurance for e-scooters, but individuals may purchase coverage voluntarily.

Ottawa

Speed Limit:

Maximum speed of 24 km/h

Road Use:

Electric scooters may be operated on dedicated bicycle lanes. Prohibited Areas: No person shall operate, cause to be operated, or use an electric scooter on any highway with a statutory speed limit exceeding 50 km/h, except within a designated bicycle lane. No person shall operate, cause to be operated, or use an electric scooter on highways, sidewalks, trails, paths, walkways, parks, exhibition grounds, or multi-use trails.

Parking Requirements:

F-scooters may only be parked in designated e-scooter parking areas marked by road markings or official signage. These are typically located within urban right-of-way or municipal parking lots, in designated and marked on-street parking bays, or on sidewalks.

London

Age:

In London, individuals aged 16 and above may legally use e-scooters. Users aged 16 or 17 must wear a helmet when operating an e-scooter.

Speed Limit:

Maximum speed is 24 km/h.

Road Use:

E-scooters are permitted on roads with dedicated bicycle lanes. Where no bicycle lane exists, e-scooters must travel as close as possible to the right-hand side of the road or road shoulder. Prohibited Areas: Operators must not ride electric scooters on sidewalks, hiking trails defined by park and recreation bylaws, Environmental Sensitive Areas (ESAs), natural park areas, or roads with speed limits exceeding 50 km/h.

In general, each municipality has its own scope and emphasis for electric scooter operating rules. It is crucial to consult and comply with your municipality's specific regulations while adhering to Ontario's general electric scooter framework. Violations may result in fines ranging from $250 to $2,500.

(Source: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/190389)

Electric Scooter Laws In Prince Edward Island

Age:

Riders must be at least 16 years old

Helmet:

A bicycle helmet with a chin strap is required

License:

In Prince Edward Island, electric scooter regulations are the same as for bicycles. No driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance, or license plate is required.

Lighting:

When riding between half an hour before sunset and half an hour after sunrise, a white or amber light must be visible from the front, projecting at least 150 meters in the direction the scooter is traveling. Riders may substitute a compliant portable light if the scooter lacks a headlight. Hand signals are required when turning if the e-scooter lacks turn signals.

Speed Limit:

The maximum operating speed must not exceed 24 km/h.

Road Use:

Electric scooters are generally suitable for use on most roads used by conventional bicycles, following similar regulations. However, there are some exceptions: Electric scooters may be used in bike lanes on highways, but the speed must not exceed 60 km/h. If a highway does not have a bike lane, they may only be used on the highway shoulder or near the edge of the road (preferably on the right side). Electric scooters may not be used in public parks or fairgrounds, unless authorized by municipal regulations. Electric scooters are also prohibited on Federal Roads, sidewalks, and municipal roads.

Scooter Usage:

The motor's continuous output power must not exceed 500 watts; the scooter's weight, including the motor and battery, must not exceed 45 kg; the wheel diameter must not exceed 430 mm.

Equipment Requirements:

Must have a braking system; equipped with a bell or horn; no seats, pedals, baskets, or any enclosed structures allowed on the scooter.

Parking Requirements:

Electric scooters must be parked in designated areas within the community and not in heavy traffic areas.

Other:

Riders must wear reflective clothing to be more visible to other road users. Electric scooters are only allowed to be used by one person and are not allowed to carry any cargo or passengers.

Generally speaking, electric scooters are legal in Prince Edward Island, with clear regulations and rules, and they generally follow the same road rules as cyclists. However, it's important to note that electric scooters are prohibited on municipal roads, and operating an electric scooter while intoxicated is also prohibited and punishable by law

(Source: https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/transportation-and-infrastructure/electric-kick-scooters)

Electric Scooter Laws In Quebec

In Quebec, electric scooters and electric unicycles are classified as motorized personal mobility devices (MPMDs), distinguishing them from motorized personal mobility devices (MPMDs) such as electric bicycles and mopeds.

Age:

MPMD users must be at least 14 years old.

Helmet:

A helmet must be worn.

License:

A driver's license is not required, but proof of age is required.

Lighting:

Scooters must be equipped with a white front headlight and a red rear taillight, both of which can be flashing. They must remain on at all times when used at night. Riders wearing lights visible to other road users are exempt from inspection. Furthermore, scooters must be equipped with reflectors unless the rider is wearing reflective clothing or accessories (such as a backpack or helmet). The reflectors must be white on the front, red on the rear, and red on the sides, positioned as far back as possible. Both the reflector and the lights must be visible from a distance of 150 meters.

Speed Limit:

Maximum speed is 25 km/h.

Road Use:

Traffic rules are largely similar to those for bicycles, so bicycle signs and signals must be followed. When riding, keep as close to the curb or on the right side of the road as possible, in the same direction as traffic; ride along the shoulder of the road in the same direction as traffic; yield to pedestrians at crosswalks; ride on sidewalks except in special circumstances; and when overtaking in the same lane, slow down and maintain a safe distance of at least one meter. Do not ride on public roads with a speed limit exceeding 50 km/h.

Scooter Usage:

Electric scooters, including the battery, must weigh no more than 36 kg; the wheel diameter must be at least 190 mm; and the maximum motor output must not exceed 500W.

Equipment Requirements:

Must be equipped with a braking system, at least one of which must be a mechanical brake (such as a disc brake or drum brake).

Other:

Do not use headphones or portable devices for entertainment purposes, such as mobile phones or monitors, while operating an electric scooter. Operating an electric scooter to carry passengers or cargo, including towing a trailer, is prohibited.

Generally speaking, in Quebec, rules for e-scooters are similar to those for bicycles. However, it's important to note that municipalities can prohibit the use of MPMDs on bike lanes or public roads by displaying signs depicting scooters. Therefore, it's always wise to consult your local municipality regarding regulations before riding.

(Source: https://www.quebec.ca/en/transports/traffic-road-safety/traffic-rules-tips-various-transportation-modes/electric-scooters)

Electric Scooter Laws In Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, each city or town decides whether to allow e-scooters and sets its own rules, so you should check with your local municipality to determine if e-scooters are permitted. Generally, in areas where e-scooters are permitted, they are subject to provincial traffic safety regulations, requiring drivers to be at least 16 years old and wearing a helmet. They can only be ridden alone, and the scooter cannot be towed behind anything. They are only allowed on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less, depending on the municipality.

(Source: https://sgi.sk.ca/e-scooters)

Conclusion

The future of e-scooters is unstoppable. Standardized and unified safety regulations will help riders use them safely, protecting themselves and others, and allowing people to better enjoy the convenience of two-wheeled mobility. Prioritize wearing a helmet and complying with local traffic rules at all times. These simple steps not only reduce risks but also ensure your rides are safer and more pleasant.

FAQs

Q: How can I stay updated with the latest regulatory resources?

Government websites. Check online for your local government's published regulations regarding e-scooters. This will include maps of permitted pilot areas and the latest updates on pilot programs.
Local transportation departments. Local transportation department. You can call or visit your local transportation department to ask professionals about relevant regulations.
News media. Follow travel news reports to stay informed of changes in traffic regulations.
Mobile apps. Download transportation apps that cover e-scooter regulations. This can save you time and ensure compliance.
Community forums and social media. Join local online communities or follow city transportation departments on social media to stay informed about riding regulations.
Connecting with other riders can also help you avoid common misconceptions.

Q: Are electric scooters legal in Canada?

A: Yes. Electric scooters are legal in most parts of Canada, but riding conditions and regulations vary from region to region. And electric scooters remain in the phase of gradual adoption and popularization, Canada has not yet established unified national regulations specifically for them.

Q: What’s the electric scooter law in Winnipeg?

A: Currently, Manitoba law does not explicitly classify electric scooters as bicycles or “electric-assist bicycles,” and there are no corresponding road restrictions. Therefore, you should inquire with the Winnipeg municipal government about specific usage regulations.

Q: Can I drive a scooter in Canada without a license?

A: This depends on the regulations of your municipality. In most regions, you can ride an electric scooter without a driver's license, as long as you meet the age requirement, such as in Quebec, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. However, some provinces or cities specifically require a driver's license to ride an electric scooter, such as Newfoundland and Labrador, Toronto, and New Brunswick.

Q: Are electric scooters legal in Toronto?

A: Yes. With the recent introduction of age and license requirements, speed limits, designated scooter lanes, and public safety awareness campaigns, electric scooters are becoming increasingly legal in Toronto. Before using an electric scooter, consult your local community's regulations.