**** HRM Media Release
Use of e-scooters in the municipality
Effective July 15, 2023, the operation of e-scooters (also known as electric kick scooters) is guided by By-law M-300, the Micromobility By-law. It is also guided by the Province of Nova Scotia’s Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) .
By-law M-300, the Micromobility By-law permits e-scooter use in municipality in the following locations:
- roadways having a speed limit of 50 kilometers per hour or less
- bicycle lanes on any roadway
- multi-use pathways within streets
The by-law also specifies that no person shall operate an electric kick-scooter:
- at a speed in excess of 25 kilometers per hour on a roadway or bicycle lane
- at a speed in excess of 15 kilometers per hour on a multi-use pathway
- on a sidewalk
E-scooters are not permitted on multi-use pathways in parks (e.g. Chain of Lakes Trail, Forest Hills Trail or Sackville Greenway) unless they are signed as permitted.
The MVA imposes specific safety obligations for e-scooter operators, including that users must wear helmets and be at least 14 years old. Read the legislation for more information.
Penalties for not complying with these rules could include fines or impoundment of the device.
The use of e-scooters may be permitted on private property at the discretion of the property owner.
In July 2023 Council directed staff to develop a two-year pilot project to license a limited number of businesses to operate short-term e-scooter and bicycle rental services. The staff report is located here.
