E-Scooters and E-Bikes

An illustrated image of two people riding an e-bike

Micromobility devices like e-scooters and e-bikes are sustainable, convenient, and affordable modes of transportation. They use less space and energy than a car, are convenient for short trips and complement public transit.

Sidewalk riding, parking and other violations should be reported to:

We recognize that micromobility devices are a sustainable mode of transportation while also prioritizing the safety of all road, multi-use path, and trail users. DYK? We have a by-law regulating the operation of e-scooters and e-bikes within the Town-owned transportation network.

E-Scooter requirements

An e-scooter is a device with the following key features:

two wheels (one at the front and one at the back),
a platform to stand on, a handlebar for steering,
an electric motor not exceeding 500 watts,
a maximum speed of 24 km/h on a level surface,
a maximum weight of 45 kg.

E-Bike requirements

An e-bike is a power-assisted bicycle with the following key features:

a handlebar for steering, working pedals, two or three wheels, an electric motor, braking systems,
a maximum assisted speed of 32 km/h,
an electric motor not exceeding 500 watts,
a maximum weight of 120 kg; however, on multi-use paths and trails, the maximum weight should be less than 55 kg.

What is not an e-bike

Limited-speed motorcycles and motor-assisted bicycles (mopeds), as defined by the Highway Traffic Act, are motor vehicles and not e-bikes. As per Whitby’s by-law, these devices are not permitted on dedicated cycling facilities, including multi-use paths and paved trails.

What micromobility devices are not permitted:

Electric hoverboards, electric skateboards, Segways, and electric unicycles, are not permitted.

Where can you ride an e-scooter or e-bike within the Town’s transportation network

Facility Type - Can I ride on a:	E-scooter	E-bike
Roadway (vehicle lane) with speed limit over 50 km/hr	✅ - Yes	❌ - No (excludes roads with bicycle lanes or paved shoulders with minimum width 1.2 m)
Roadway (vehicle lane) with speed limit up to 50 km/hr	✅ - Yes	✅ - Yes
Bicycle Lane or Paved Shoulder (paved shoulder with minimum width of 1.2 m)	✅ - Yes	✅ - Yes
Cycle Track	✅ - Yes	✅ - Yes
Multi-Use Path	✅ - Yes (less than 55 kilograms)	✅ - Yes
Park Trail	✅ - Yes (less than 55 kilograms)	✅ - Yes (paved only)
Sidewalk	❌ - No	❌ - No

Where can you ride e-scooters or e-bikes on Regional Roads

As per the Region of Durham By-law, e-scooters or e-bikes can be used on Regional roads with a posted speed limit of up to 60 km/hr.

What are bicycle lanes, multi-use paths and trails

Bicycle Lanes - Bicycle lanes are a portion of a roadway which has been designated for the exclusive use of cyclists and are separated from adjacent motor vehicle lanes by pavement markings that may have a horizontal buffer and separation elements to restrict encroachment of vehicular trafﬁc. Bicycle lanes are designated with signage and pavement markings (diamond and bike symbols). The Whitby Traffic By-law prohibits driving in, parking in or stopping in bicycle lanes.

Multi-use Paths (MUPs) and Park Trails - Multi-use paths are a two-way path in a roadway boulevard separated from the travelled portion of the roadway by a curb. Off-road trails are located within parks and open spaces. These multi-use facilities are shared by pedestrians and cyclists.

Learn more about cycling facilities

General rules to promote safety and accessibility

Age Limitation: A person must be 16 years or over to operate an e-scooter or e-bike.
Helmet Requirements: Under provincial law, helmet for e-scooter riders is mandatory for all individuals under the age of 18. Similarly, a helmet is mandatory for all e-bike riders.
Maximum Speed Limit: 20 km/h for e-scooters and e-bikes on multi-use paths and trails; In addition, an e-scooter or e-bike shall not be operated at a speed that is markedly greater than the speed of the pedestrians who are near the e-scooter or e-bike. Maximum speed limit on roads is 24 km/h for e-scooters and 32 km/h for e-bikes.
Right-of-way to Pedestrians: Riders must give pedestrians the right of way and use a sound signal when passing on multi-use paths and trails.
Weight Limitation: Weight limit for e-bikes on multi-use paths and park trails is 55 kg.
Sidewalk: Riding or parking on sidewalks is prohibited.
Within Crosswalk/Crossover: Riders must walk their e-scooters or e-bikes through crosswalks and crossovers. However, they may ride through a crossride.
Parking: No parking on roadways, sidewalks/walkways, trails, multi-use pathways or within boulevard except where e-scooters or e-bikes parking facilities are provided.
Safety Tips: No handheld devices while riding e-scooters or e-bikes; keep at least 1 metre away from pedestrians and other road users.

Fine for violating the e-scooter and e-bike by-law

The fine for violating the by-law is between $205 and $450, in accordance with the Town’s Administrative Penalty System.

Report an issue (e.g., riding on sidewalk)

Related policies and by-laws