(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
Despite their growing popularity across Ontario, and what might be a surprise to electric scooters owners in Cobourg – e-scooters are illegal to operate on public roads, bike lanes and sidewalks in the town.
The municipality has not opted into Ontario’s e-scooter pilot program, meaning riders using the devices on municipal highways are subject to enforcement under the Highway Traffic Act.
Ontario Regulation 389/19 allows municipalities to voluntarily participate in a pilot program, currently running until November 2029, to evaluate whether e-scooters can safely operate alongside other vehicles and whether existing traffic laws are suitable for the emerging form of transportation.
“The Town of Cobourg has not joined the provincial pilot program, which means riding an e-scooter on public roads, bike lanes or sidewalks in Cobourg is illegal,” Town Clerk Brent Larmer said.
The regulation establishes several operating requirements for municipalities that choose to participate in the pilot. Under the provincial rules, e-scooter riders must:
Be at least 16 years of age.
Wear a helmet if under 18 years old.
Remain standing while operating the e-scooter.
Not operate an e-scooter while impaired by alcohol, drugs or any other substance.
Not carry passengers or tow another person or vehicle.
Larmer confirmed that Council has directed staff to prepare a report examining the issue.
“Staff have been asked to provide a report back to Council, which staff are developing now.”
Until Council decides otherwise, enforcement remains the responsibility of police.
“As this is currently under the Highway Traffic Act and the Town does not have a municipal by-law in place, it would be under the police jurisdiction and offences would be subject to Section 228(8) of the Highway Traffic Act,” Larmer said.
For now, residents who ride e-scooters on Cobourg’s public roads, bike lanes or sidewalks are doing so contrary to provincial legislation because the municipality has not authorized their use through the provincial pilot program.
It’s unknown if any enforcement has taken place with Cobourg Police.
Video – Scooter Rider Suffers Head Injury in Fall in Cobourg
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
