The City of Kingston, along with its police force, wants to remind residents that e-scooters are not permitted on city roads, sidewalks, trails, or public spaces. Unlike some Ontario cities, Kingston has not opted into the province’s e-scooter pilot project, which began in 2020.
The pilot project, in effect for nearly a decade, allows municipalities that choose to participate to permit individuals aged 16 and above to ride electric scooters that can reach speeds of up to 24 km/h on flat surfaces. While cities like Ottawa and Toronto have joined the program despite safety concerns, Kingston has not done so.
In a recent news release, Kingston mentioned that it is currently evaluating regulations for “micromobility,” including e-scooters, bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades, to present for council approval. Additionally, e-cargo bikes exceeding 55 kilograms, electric skateboards, hoverboards, and electric low-speed vehicles resembling small cars are also prohibited in Kingston.
Individuals found riding e-scooters unlawfully may face charges, fines, and confiscation, according to Kingston officials. Recently, the city reported that police stopped an individual riding an electric scooter at a speed of 77 km/h. Scooters capable of such high speeds are not part of the e-scooter pilot and may be classified as motor vehicles, subject to all provincial requirements.