Did you know? You must be 16 years or older to legally operate an electric kick scooter in BC
From 2021 to 2024 the Province of BC held a pilot project to test electric kick scooter use in communities. The town of Osoyoos joined in September of 2022. Starting April 5, 2024 a new pilot project started and the town chose to continue being a pilot community. This pilot project allows e-scooters to be used on designated streets, cycling lanes, and multi-use pathways.
Electric kick scooters are a clean and relatively affordable transportation option compared to motor vehicles. Their popularity has grown in recent years, and in many communities they’ve become a convenient choice for short trips that might otherwise be made by car.
This project has been extended through to April of 2028.
In B.C., electric kick scooters must meet specific requirements to be considered legal to operate. Riding a scooter that does not meet these standards may result in a violation ticket and fine from police.
A legal electric kick scooter must have:
Handlebars for steering and a standing platform in the middle (no seat or enclosed area).
One or two front wheels and one or two rear wheels, each no more than 430 mm in diameter, aligned along a longitudinal axis.
One or more electric motors powered by batteries, with a continuous power output of no more than 500 watts.
A total weight not exceeding 45 kg, including motors and batteries.
A maximum speed capability of 25 km/h on a clean, paved, level surface.
A braking system that can stop the scooter from maximum speed within 7.5 metres. The motor must also stop when the accelerator is released or the brakes are applied.
A bell or horn that must be used when passing pedestrians or other road users.
Front and rear lights that must be used between sunset and sunrise (the operator may wear lights instead).
In the Town and in other participating BC communities, electric kick scooters are permitted on roadways as follows, unless otherwise directed by a traffic control device:
On roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less, electric kick scooters must use a designated cycling lane if one is available or stay as far right as practicable.
On roads with a speed limit above 50km/h, electric kick scooters can only operate in a designated cycling lane.
Riding is not permitted on highways. This means Highway 97, and Highway 3 including Main Street.
Electric kick scooter operators must obey any signs and traffic control devices.
In order to use an electric kick scooter anywhere in BC, you must be at least 16 years of age.
When operating an e-scooter, please adhere to the following:
Helmets are required at all times when operating an e-scooter.
If renting an e-scooter drop off in designated parking locations.
Use designated cycling lanes if available or stay as close to the right as possible.
Be cautious of your surroundings, look out for uneven surfaces and pass with care.
Use turn signals on roadways and bells when passing pedestrians.
Only ride in designated areas (e-scooters are not allowed on sidewalks, pedestrian pathways or crosswalks).
Do not ride while impaired due to alcohol or drugs.
Do not use your phone or other device while operating an e-scooter
Ride solo - only one rider per scooter is permitted at all times.
The full list of safety rules for operators as well as tips for getting started with your electric kick scooter can be found on the B.C Government website under Electric Kick Scooter Safety and Rules.
To learn more about the Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project and how participating communities are helping to gather information to inform if and how electric kick scooters should be authorized for permanent use in the province, visit the Province of British Columbia website.
