Richmond Hill, Sep 19 — E-scooters, which have been banned on most city streets until now, could soon be allowed to share lanes with cars and trucks legally.
The small, kick-style vehicles, capable of speeds up to 25 km/h, may also be permitted in bike lanes, multi-use paths, and possibly off-road trails under the city’s new Micromobility Strategy.
City councillors approved the plan on Sept. 17, noting that while e-scooters and other lightweight, affordable vehicles are increasingly popular, they may present safety issues for pedestrians, cars, and trucks. Officials emphasized that micromobility vehicles — including e-scooters and power-assisted e-bikes that look like motorcycles — are already present on local streets. The city plans to address challenges, such as underage riding and traffic violations, through a public education campaign starting this fall.
Mayor West stressed that children under 16 cannot ride e-scooters or power-assisted bikes, calling it “illegal” and saying the rules must be clearly communicated.
Currently, e-scooters are allowed on certain regional pathways, including multi-use sidewalks along the Lake to Lake route. However, children under 16 have been spotted riding them in York Region.
Councillor Carol Davidson warned that these devices are powerful and pose serious health risks, saying, “This is like putting a kid on a rocket.”
Councillor Karen Cilevitz added that she has seen similar technology, like electric skateboards and “Back to the Future” style gadgets, travelling faster than cars on Yonge Street. She also noted that silent vehicles on sidewalks can be frightening for people with hearing impairments and mothers with strollers.
A Reddit thread called “Dangerous Unicycle Guy” described an electric unicycle riding at 60 km/h on city roads and sidewalks, highlighting safety concerns.
The strategy also includes plans for a shared e-scooter rental program in collaboration with Markham and Vaughan by 2027, though Richmond Hill has not yet started discussions with operators.
