September 9, 2026 - Bergeron Clifford LLP

On August 1, 2026, a member of the Kingston Police Traffic Safety Unit observed a man travelling on an e-scooter in the bicycle lane. The man was travelling 77km/h in a posted 50km/zone. He was arrested and issued seven Part III summonses for offences including driving a motor vehicle while under suspension, operating and driving a motor vehicle without insurance, licence plates, and a VIN, failing to stop, and speeding.

What Is An E-Scooter?

An Electric e-scooter (or electric kick scooter) is a battery-powered, two-wheeled personal vehicle, with a platform to stand on and handlebars. Think a scooter from the 90s, but with throttle-controlled electric motor.

Can I Ride an E-Scooter in Kingston?

Short answer? No.

Kingston has not opted into Ontario’s e-scooter pilot program. As it stands, e-scooters are not permitted within the City’s public transportation network.

Why Aren’t E-Scooters Allowed in Kingston?

Kingston is working on developing their own set of rules under the Micromobility Regulations Strategy.

What Is Micromobility?

Micromobility is an umbrella term used to describe small, low-speed, lightweight, human- or electric-powered methods of travel. The term (at least as used by the City of Kingston) includes bicycles, cargo bikes, e-bikes, e-cargo bikes, e-scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, and low-speed vehicles. To count as a micromobility device, certain requirements must be met.

What If I Use A Mobility Device For A Disability?

Manual and powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters that are eligible under the Provincial Assistive Devices Program are not categorized as micromobility. A person using these devices is considered pedestrians.

Are There Rules for Micromobility in Kingston?

Yes! The City of Kingston has developed a helpful chart here, complete with photos, to help you keep track of the rules. As the rules change and evolve, you can stay up to date at the City’s FAQ here.

How Old Do I Have To Be To Ride An E-Scooter?

In municipalities where you’re allowed to ride an e-scooter, riders must be at least 16.

Do I Have To Have Insurance For An E-Scooter?

If your e-scooter is an e-scooter under the provincial policy, you do not need to have insurance. But you should consider how you would handle costs in the event of an accident. Some homeowners or tenant policies may offer limited liability coverage for personal mobility devices, but you should check with your provider.

When Is An E-Scooter Considered A Motor Vehicle?

The Kingston Police considered the e-scooter in the article above to be a motor vehicle. To be considered an e-scooter, the device must meet certain requirements, including a maximum speed of 24km/h, an electric motor that does not exceed 500 watts, a maximum weight of 45kg, and it cannot have pedals, a seat, or a basket.

What If I’m In An Accident While Riding My E-Scooter?

It depends. If you are hit by a vehicle while on your e-Scooter, you may have a tort claim. If you are riding an e-scooter and it is involved in a collision with a person, vehicle, or animal, or causes injury or property damage, you must report the collision to the police.

If the collision involves a motor vehicle and you’re covered under a valid car insurance policy, you may be entitled to Accident Benefits. If you are in an accident other than one involving a motor vehicle, you will not be eligible for Accident Benefits.