Have an e-bike?

With summer weather in full swing, you may want to jump on your e-bike or e-scooter to get around. These modes of transportation are called “micromobility devices,” and there are rules you must follow when using them to keep everyone safe.  

Here's everything you need to know:

What should I do if I see unsafe use of e-bikes and other micromobility devices?

Please report it to Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or service@vaughan.ca and provide the date, location and nature of the incident. By-law officers frequently patrol public spaces – like parks – and will respond as required. Concerns can also be reported to York Regional Police through the non-emergency phone line at 1-866-876-5423 or by completing the online form at yrp.ca.

Where can I ride my micromobility device?

To keep everyone safe, micromobility devices that are motorized – such as e-scooters, mopeds, Segways and electric skateboards/hoverboards – cannot be used on sidewalks, cycle tracks, shared pedestrian and bike paths or recreational trails in the city. Micromobility devices are also not permitted on any sports fields or courts, such as basketball or tennis courts. Those who require motorized wheelchairs and medical e-devices to get around are exempt from this rule. Like pedestrians, people operating medical micromobility devices are welcome on sidewalks, paths and trails.

Where can I ride my e-bike?

They can be used on most roads and highways where traditional bikes are permitted, with some exceptions. E-bikes are not allowed on certain provincially controlled access highways, such as 400 series highways, paths and trails. Learn more about provincial e-bike requirements and where they can operate.

There are additional provincial rules for e-bikes: the maximum assisted speed is 32 kilometres per hour, the rider must be 16 years or older and all riders must wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet.

What safety measures do I have to follow when riding my e-bike or micromobility device?

Practice safe riding etiquette when on a motorized device. This includes:

• wearing an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet.
• keeping your device in good working order.
• following the same rules of the road as other cyclists. Learn more about safe cycling and how to ride on the road.

According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, riders must be 16 years or older to operate any

motorized micromobility devices. For more regulations view their website.

What is the City doing to advance micromobility in Vaughan?

As micromobility use continues to grow in popularity, the City is currently working to establish operational guidelines for privately-owned devices This includes creating a framework to identify infrastructure and outline guidelines, policies and any regulation/by-law changes that may be needed.

How can I get involved?

City staff are collecting feedback on the use of motorized micromobility devices in Vaughan to inform future planning, policies and infrastructure improvements within the city. You are invited to take a survey to share your thoughts. The survey will take approximately five minutes to complete and will be available until Friday, Aug. 25. This information will be compiled in a Staff Report, being brought to Vaughan Council in September 2023. You can also register to stay informed about opportunities for feedback.

For more information, visit vaughan.ca/micromobility.

For updates and news as they happen, subscribe to Vaughan News and follow the official corporate channels on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.