Allowing and Regulating E-scooters in Deep River

Allowing and Regulating E-scooters in Deep River

Why are we doing this?

The use of electric kick scooters (e-scooters) in Ontario is currently regulated by provincial rules that generally prohibit their use on public roads, sidewalks, trails, and other public spaces unless a municipality passes a by-law allowing it. These rules also set limits on who can ride e-scooters, how they can be used, and their design and speed. At present, because Deep River does not have a by-law permitting e-scooters, they are not allowed on public infrastructure in the community.

The Town of Deep River is considering a by-law that would allow e-scooters on certain roads and municipal properties, subject to specific rules.

What are the key features of this by-law?

Similar to other vehicles (cars, bicycles, ATV’s etc.), the use of e-scooters on any public roadway in Ontario is regulated by the provincial Highway Traffic Act. Where a municipal by-law allows e-scooters to be used, the Highway Traffic Act sets out the following minimum regulations:

  • No person under the age of 16 years may use an e-scooter on public infrastructure (including parks and trails),
  • Anyone under the age of 18 must wear an appropriate helmet,
  • Limitations on where an e-scooter may be used (e.g. if bicycle lanes are available, e-scooters must use the bicycle lane),
  • A limitation on the power (not exceeding 500W) and speed (less than 24km/h) capabilities of the e-scooter, and
  • Limitations and requirements on the design of the e-scooter (weight, wheel size, lighting, braking systems, etc.).

The Highway Traffic Act supersedes any by-laws the Town may adopt, and therefore, the Town cannot override any of the restrictions listed above.

The proposed by-law to Regulate the Operation and Use of Electric Kick-Scooters, would allow e-scooters to be used in Deep River for a pilot period until November 2029 with the following restrictions:

  • On municipal roads only, excluding Deep River Road and Ridge Road
  • On trails and in parks where bicycles are allowed, but not on sidewalks
  • On multi-use pathways and bicycle lanes, if these are created in the future.
  • During day-time hours only, and only when visibility is good.

Will there be public correspondence?

We’d love to get your input and hear your feedback about the proposed changes. Please complete this survey: Allowing the use of e-scooters in Deep River 

Send us an email at townmail@deepriver.ca.

Drop in and chat with us! We are Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

How will this be done?

This by-law is in draft form and has not yet been adopted by Council. Town staff will consolidate and present the input and feedback received over the summer, and present further recommendations to Council in the late summer (watch this website for updates on when these will be discussed at Council).