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Share the Road: Ottawa Police highlight e-scooter safety

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, April 27, 2026 11:52 a.m.

(Ottawa) – The number of e-scooters is expected to increase significantly on city streets by the end of April, and the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is reminding e-scooter riders and the public about rules and tips for operating them safely.

“We get a lot of questions about how to operate an e-scooter; the same rules and safety precautions for bicycles apply to e-scooters,” said Sergeant Josh Callaghan of the OPS Road Safety Unit. “Be safe, wear safety equipment, and watch out for vulnerable road users like pedestrians and children.”

Whether you rent or own an e-scooter, remember these rules when you operate them:

Ride in bike lanes or on the shoulder of a roadway and not on sidewalks.
- Riders who are found using their e-scooters on sidewalks are subject to a $150 fine.

You must be at least 16-years-old to use an e-scooter

If you are under 18-years-old, you must wear a helmet. All riders are encouraged to wear helmets and wear bright and reflective clothing so that drivers can see them during the day and at night.

Your e-scooters must have a bell or a horn, as well as a white light on the front of the e-scooter and a red light on the back of the vehicle (to be turned on at dusk).

The same rules and fines apply while operating any vehicle on the road.
- Do not drive distracted and do not drive impaired.

E-scooters are designed for one user at a time. You cannot ride an e-scooter with a passenger.

E-scooters are not permitted on NCC cycling paths or in the ByWard Market.

Motorists

Slow down near e-scooters.

Drive safely and provide e-scooters with the same 1-metre distancing rule required for cyclists.

Be courteous and avoid driving through puddles near e-scooters.

“Scooters can be a fun and convenient way to get around the city,” said Sgt. Callaghan. “Our goal is to help everyone use them safely and responsibly, while making sure sidewalks and roads remain safe for all, especially pedestrians or those using mobility devices.”

If you have a complaint about someone dangerously using an e-scooters, you can file a Traffic Complaint online at ottawapolice.ca/report.

For more information, please visit the City of Ottawa e-scooters web page.

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Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366

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