đź›´ E-Scooter Safety: Know the Rules and Share the Road
- Jun 28
- 2 min read
Did You Know?
Many residents have noticed that older City webpages refer to a five-year e-scooter pilot that began in 2020.
The Province of Ontario has since extended the electric kick-scooter pilot program until November 27, 2029. Hamilton continues to participate in the pilot and regulates personal e-scooter use through City of Hamilton By-law 20-269.
With school out for the summer, more people are enjoying Hamilton's roads, parks, trails, and neighbourhoods on e-scooters. They can be a fun and convenient way to get around - but they also come with important responsibilities.
Our office has recently heard from several residents with concerns about e-scooters being ridden on sidewalks, excessive speeds in parks, and close calls involving pedestrians, particularly seniors and young families.
A few simple reminders can help everyone enjoy our shared spaces safely.
Know the Rules
Hamilton participates in Ontario's electric kick-scooter pilot program and regulates their use through City By-law 20-269.
Riders must:
Be at least 16 years of age
Wear a helmet if under 18 years old
Ride only where e-scooters are permitted
Stand while operating the e-scooter
Ride without passengers
Never operate an e-scooter while impaired
Where Can You Ride?
In Hamilton, e-scooters are permitted on:
Roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less
Roads with cycling facilities
Boulevard multi-use paths adjacent to a street
Select paved recreational multi-use trails that are signed for e-scooter use
E-scooters are not permitted on:
Sidewalks
Unpaved recreational trails
Most park trails unless specifically signed
Controlled-access highways such as the LINC, Red Hill Parkway, Highway 403 or the QEW
When riding on shared multi-use trails, riders must travel at a speed appropriate for surrounding pedestrians and other trail users.
Safety Is More Than Following the Rules
Being courteous goes a long way toward preventing injuries.
If you're riding an e-scooter:
Slow down when approaching pedestrians.
Give seniors, children, pets, and families plenty of space.
Be especially cautious in parks and on shared pathways.
Always yield to pedestrians.
Remember that not everyone can move quickly out of your way.
A Message for Parents
Summer is a great time to remind young riders about safe and respectful riding.
Please take a few minutes to review the rules with your children before they head out:
âś” Wear a helmet.
âś” Stay off sidewalks.
âś” Ride at a safe speed.
âś” Watch for pedestrians.
âś” Share public spaces respectfully.
Teaching good habits now helps keep everyone safe while allowing everyone to enjoy Hamilton's parks, trails, and neighbourhoods throughout the summer.
For complete information on Hamilton's e-scooter rules, visit:
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