E-Scooters
At the March 5, 2024 Council meeting, City Council approved Chilliwack's participation in the province's Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project, starting April 5, 2024.
Electric kick scooters are only allowed in designated areas within the City and riders must follow provincial kick scooter rules. Learn more about the e-scooter rules at the following link: /main/link.cfm?id=3432
Frequently Asked Questions
1. I already purchased an electric kick scooter with a power rating greater than 500W and / or a speed limit greater than 25 km/h. Will my scooter be grandfathered in?
No, the province does not permit scooters with greater power or speeds than those listed under the regulation.
2. I want my child to be able to ride an e-scooter. Can the City please change the rules to allow this?
The City is not permitted to change the pilot rules in this area. Only people aged 16 years of age or older may operate e-scooters on the City’s roads.
On private property, there are not restrictions regarding e-scooter minimum age imposed by the City or province.
3. Are all of the e-scooters sold within the province legal to use within the pilot?
Although the City will be communicating pilot regulations with local businesses, there is not a restriction as to which e-scooters can be sold at these businesses. Please review the e-scooter rules when determining which scooter to purchase. Note that regulations may vary between communities and provinces.
4. Someone is riding an e-scooter and breaking the rules. Who do I contact to request enforcement?
If the issue is a moving violation (the person is in motion) and it is not an emergency, please contact the RCMP non-emergency number at 604-792-4611. If it is an emergency, please call 911.
5. Do you need insurance to operate an e-scooter?
No, however, obtaining insurance is strongly recommended. There are many different types of coverage to review, such as theft, damage, liability, personal accident, roadside, uninsured motorist, and umbrella coverage. You may already be covered through your homeowners or tenants insurance. Please check the terms of your insurance policy to confirm your coverage and speak with an insurance professional if you have any questions.
6. Does this also apply to other micro mobility devices like hoverboards, motorized skateboards, and Segways?
No, they are still not permitted on roads in British Columbia.
7. Does this regulation apply to senior’s motorized wheelchairs (mobility scooters)?
No, motorized wheelchair users follow the same rules and guidelines as pedestrians. Find further information from ICBC.
8. Do electric kick scooters and electric bikes (motor assisted cycles) follow the same regulations?
No, there are some differences between the regulations. Further information from ICBC.
9. Does the City plan on imposing any additional restrictions beyond what is listed in the pilot?
Not at this time, however, staff will continue to monitor feedback and complaints to determine if additional regulations are required.
10. Will the City offer shared e-scooter services?
Shared e-scooter providers are not part of the City initial pilot participation. The City will review public feedback in spring of 2025 to determine if such a service should be considered.
11. Are e-scooters an alternative to driving my car after I have consumed alcohol?
No, it is illegal to operate an electric kick scooter while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
12. Are e-scooter users required to wear helmets?
Yes, all e-scooter users need to be wearing helmets.
13. Can I ride my e-scooter on the sidewalk?
Unless permitted by signage, e-scooter use is prohibited on sidewalks.
Do you have further questions?
Please contact City Staff at 604-793-2907 or at [email protected] if you have any additional questions.