Use common safety and traffic rules as a baseline when riding in public. Users under 18 are required to wear a helmet when riding. In addition to this, the rider may be required to have a permit. wide) designed for a single rider with an electric propulsion of fewer than 1,000 watts that cant exceed 20 miles per hour.. Good news for Californians. Unfortunately, even where some states have the laws, these are not usually straightforward. San Antonio, Austin, Houston, and Corpus Christi have their pilot programs and local laws too. The UK famously introduced restrictive laws governing the use of hoverboards and Segways. You want to please him/her with a birthday or Christmas gift, but you are clueless! Whats the regulation for your state? According to the newest law, people are allowed to operate bicycles with the electric assist on some streets and highways in New York State. They have the full rights applicable to a pedestrian. Required fields are marked *. Its best to exercise common sense safety and follow the rules of the road. Electric skateboards dont have any specific regulations and are subject to local state ordinances. Good question: Are electric skateboards legally- allowed in California State? In Georgia, there are no clear, defined laws that refer to electric scooters and skateboards. What are electric skateboard laws? The majority of states in the US have not yet legalized electric skateboards. California has among the most complicated but well-defined laws concerning electric vehicles. First, who is a pedestrian? Florida State has stricter laws on skateboards. These include: Electric micromobility vehicles are unusable on interstate highways unless pedestrian facilities are available. But take care- its entirely illegal to ride e skateboards in Florida. So, when riding an electric skateboard, ensure you have a valid form of identification on you. They can also be used on sidewalks if it yields right of way to pedestrians. Property and damage insurance may also be able to protect the electric skateboard in case of damage. The authorities respect the need but must protect lives and property, hence, the laws. E-scooters are not usable on sidewalks and high-speed highways. These include areas like Missoula. Electric skateboards are permitted on roads with speed limits of up to 50 km/h, but their own top speed is prohibited at 25 km/h (15 mph), and they must have lights and reflectors. Dear customer, in order to ensure your good experience on our website and to facilitate your management of your registered account on our website. The exact definition lists them: The exact law neither underscores nor defines rules for electric skateboards and scooters. But all is not lost. Allowed to circulate in urban areas, prior municipal deliberation, in pedestrian areas, on footpaths and cycle paths, in cycle lanes and reserved lanes, in zones and on roads with a speed limit of 30 km/. Every city will have its ordinance for the matter. Can I ride an electric skateboard on the road? Under MVC Section 257.13f, they define both as: They are usable only on streets and highways with a speed limit of 25 mph (40 km/h). Tires must be less than 10 inches in length, and wheels should be no more than 4 inches in length. Please note: The information below should not be considered legal advice. E-scooters and electric skateboards are the hottest techs in micromobility. It is difficult to find an official paper on electric skateboard regulations in Texas. Electric scooters are not allowed to exceed 15 mph on any public roads or bike lanes in California. Let's translate this and see how it applies to real-life electric skateboarders. This rule was introduced for electric scooters, but electric skateboards follow similar laws. Many areas of Nashville, for example, dont allow skateboarding on public walkways and roads. Segway and E Bikes Faced the Same Legal Situation. Riders are to follow the rules of the road. You can ride an electric skateboard on any road with a speed limit under 25mph and your maximum speed also cannot exceed that limit. When talking about electric vehicles, theres almost nothing we know that can outvalue a Tesla. For e-scooters, they have a definition under the same grain as bicycles. On the roads or streets where the posted speed limit is 25mph or less. Its best to follow rules of the road and refer to any city ordinance if there are any. You can contact local law enforcement for information or interpretation of unclear laws. link to Will My Hoverboard Blow Up? 06 Apr. In 1984 Scotland introduced its own Roads Act; the act prohibits the same things the Highway Act does. Youve got a relative or a friend who loves riding scooters or electric scooters. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); As lightweight electric transport develop, they are becoming more and more common around the world. Even then, the state leaves the jurisdiction to the cities, so rules vary from city to city. In New Jersey, SB 731 allows electric scooters with a top speed of 20 mph (32 km/h). Before you start riding your electric skateboard in public, ensure you familiarize yourself with the law. In Maryland, electric scooters are under the same definition as a bicycle for Maryland vehicle laws. As electric skateboards may not have lights by default, you may have to buy them specially. Many electric Skateboard enthusiasts have often wondered whether the law allows the boards to be used- yes, are electric skateboards legal where you live? To be specific, the law states all miniatures and electric scooters are not motor vehicles. Well, in which country do you live? Yes, you need a license to operate an electric skateboard in Illinois (source). Nevertheless, the current situation means e skaters must wait for governments to make new laws; hopefully, this will happen soon. Electric skateboards have specific rules in every city and subject to city ordinance. The speed must be under 35 mph when riding on the road. Riding e-scooters need users to be at least 18 years old and have a valid drivers license. In OKC, electric scooters cannot operate on sidewalks, and riders need to wear a helmet. Of course, the laws differ from country to country regarding how skateboards should be used. These factors include the place (where) the rider uses them, how fast the rider is riding his skateboard, and how fast the skateboard can actually move. Electric scooters in South Carolina qualify as e-bike per their wattage and power. On a cycle path, the limit is 25 km/h. They are only usable on bike lanes and should follow the rules of the road. They are subject to local traffic laws, and their treatment will be that of a road vehicle. Germany, Denmark, and Belgium allow the use of e skateboards- you only have to adhere to the speed limits. So below I have outlined a few states in which electric skateboarding is legal. It states that e-scooters can operate on sidewalks, bike lanes, and highways. If states can figure out the best rules that fit their constituents, they can take advantage. How Much Will You Pay to Purchase an Electric Skateboard? Riders should follow rules of the road, go slow, and wear a helmet. Electric Scooter Batteries: A Comprehensive Technical Guide, Can You Ride an Electric Scooter in the Rain? The same law seems to lump together hoverboards and Segways. Riders must be 17 years or older and should possess a license for riding an electric scooter. The devices may be used only on public streets with two lanes or less and a speed limit of 25 mph or less. Cities, however, have the power to override the law as needed. Electric scooters and skateboards in Idaho dont have clear definitions. Owning your electric scooter in New York is legal, and state legislation approved them. The state classifies them as micromobility or dockless vehicles. Note that all skateboard riders must yield the right of way to other pedestrians. What are the restrictions on Motor power or throttle in Illinois? Some states even subject them to local traffic laws and speed limits. Have a motor with a maximum power of 1000 watts. Can I ride an electric skateboard on the road? Motorized Skateboard Laws in California. An electric skateboard cannot be driven at more than 25 mph. They are unusable in sidewalks and can go to most areas allowed for bicycles. For the residents of Illinois or those visiting the state, youll want to know what the law says on the matter. Now he is exploring more exercise categories and trying different exercise equipment. The minimum age is 14 years old or older. This Is How to Know, link to Which Tesla Is the Best for Me? For any type of vehicle to be permitted on the road, it needs to adhere to a minimum set of design standards, which electric skateboards, unfortunately, do not meet. The board must not exceed 700 mm in width or 20 kg in weight. There was a motorized skateboard craze that started in the mid 1970's and this law was passed because a lot of people were riding them in the streets. Indiana law has specific details listed for Electric scooters as defined by House Bill 1649. It is illegal to ride an electric skateboard on a sidewalk or road in the business district. E-skateboards are under specialty vehicles and are exempt from regulation and licensure. Can Electric Skateboards Go Uphill? This pretty much rules out all public places to ride an electric skateboard.. Electric skateboards were made legal in Michigan in 2018. To sum up the laws in Seattle on electric skateboards: What we find on Reddit says, Ordinance 9-80-200 says you cant use skateboards on roadways or sidewalks in business districts. Regardless of your residence, its essential to learn the rules governing road use. They are not available for use on sidewalks or public walkways. The closest law comes from Georgias low-speed vehicles code. The eskate laws are the same rules that apply to cyclists. Under the bill, the minimum user age is 16 years old and above. At an intersection, to cross a road or street even if the road or street has a posted speed limit of more than 25 miles per hour. They will go on roadways instead of sidewalks and will adjust legislation as it goes by. Illinois has unclear laws concerning non-traditional vehicles like e-skateboards and e-scooters. Neither Lumbuy nor its authors are liable for incomplete or incorrect information. This is due to the passing of SB1398 that defined proper laws regarding e-vehicle use. For e-skateboards, Traffic Code 76.03 asks riders to follow local ordinance laws for their use. They need to have a max output of 1000 W, and the rider needs to be at least 16 years old. People who ride electric skateboards must be at least sixteen years old. Typically, no laws are regulating the use of electric skateboards in Florida. Electric skateboards go under the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission (AMVC) Rule 5. Interestingly, many e skateboard enthusiasts have noticed that law enforcers don't apply the regulations strictly. The state encourages the use of helmets, and e-scooters should park in bicycle parking areas. E-scooters are termed "low-speed electric scooters" and follow the same rules as bicycles. Before buying one, consider several things. Note that the 20mph speed limit here is a definition, not a regulation. I want to keep updating this post to cover each individual state, but as you can imagine, that is a ton of work, so, keep checking back to see if your state has been added. However, Australia treats e skateboards differently- the law considers them the same as motorized or regular scooters- but e skateboard riders are considered pedestrians, not riders. It is up to the local city council to provide local city ordinances. Its best to follow rules of the road or local ordinance if available. What are the local laws in your area, and how far-reaching are they? Required fields are marked *. Almost every electric skateboarder has electric skateboard legal problems after receiving the toy and before riding it, are electric skateboards legal? Lets consider one example of a past product that underwent a similar legal situation, coming off victorious. The exceptions to this include: Delaware law also puts further statutes for its use with careless operation in both private and public places. Blog. They must, however, keep to the specified speed limits. Its best to follow common-sense traffic laws as needed. In most places, the law soon permitted their use on public property. But generally, officials put electric skateboards into the same category as motorized bicycles. For electric skateboards, there are no clear, defined laws or any legislation in Louisiana. Are Kick Scooters Good For Long Distance? Another factor involves the type of safety gear the skateboard rider is wearing. I'm Mike Reyes, a guy behind eDrivePlanet.com. In Illinois and Indiana, the use of electric skateboards is prohibited on public roads and sidewalks. Thus, while there is no official insurance for electric skateboards, there are things you can do. No person shall ride an electric skateboard on a sidewalk, or across a roadway on a crosswalk. The law that outlines the road rules of bicycles and mopeds, golf carts, and other low-powered vehicles clearly places an electric skateboard in the motor-assisted scooter category. There is no specific classification for electric skateboards in Texas, however, it could be argued that it comes under the legal definition of a motor-assisted scooter, in which it would be legal to ride an electric skateboard on the road under certain conditions. While the traffic signals werent created for electric skateboards, they have been adapted to accommodate it. Ohio passed House Bill 62 that, among other things, regulates electric scooters. While normal traffic rules and common sense are expected to be obeyed, there are other laws as well. Or can I ride an electric skateboard on the sidewalk? Defines "low-speed electric scooter". Can You Legally Ride an E Skateboard in Singapore. Then I searched Portland Government and got the rules in the following: As to those states not presenting apparent rules and regulations towards electric skateboards, where rules are not obvious, device operators shall at least follow the common sense of the motorized bicycles. Electric Skateboard Laws. The law requires e skateboards to meet the same safety standards and regulations as bicycles. Does the Law Consider the Electric Skateboard a Vehicle? City rules vary wildly, from cities with outright bans to cities that allow micromobility devices. For electric skateboards, there is no specific legislation for this device. Consider these essential points: Does the law allow you to ride an e skateboard on public roads? However, since Texas is a large state, laws, and regulations might be different in different cities and areas, which means youd better call the local police to figure out. They need to abide by local traffic laws and should only park in areas that dont impede traffic. There are no definite rules for electric skateboards, so its best to refer to your local city ordinance. The limit on a footpath is 15 km/h. Also, consider this: Florida law defines a motor vehicle this way: An automobile or a motorcycle, trailer, semi-trailer, truck, truck tractor or semitrailer combinationused to transport people or property propelled by non-muscular power. Of course, this definition fits the nature of an e skateboard. (g) and 31-1-3.(s). There are no laws in Illinois prohibiting electric skateboard use. Under this bill, the state considers them as bicycles and can use highways, bike lanes, or bike paths. Skateboards run at speeds that motorists cannot quickly react to or spot. The license required isnt to determine competence or expertise, rather, it is for identification purposes. Electric scooters in Louisiana have laws defined by SB91 Act 258. Know what your local law says. A person riding on the road shall yield the rule of right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing any pedestrian. RCW 46.04.336 defines electric scooters as motorized foot scooters. But at the same time, they are inseparable from other electric transportation tools. Your email address will not be published. Wisconsin passed 2019 Senate Bill 159 that treats e-scooters like a bicycle. Virginia Code 46.2-908.1 specifies ground rules with both electric scooters and skateboards. Thus, the law banning the use of motorized boards was first made in California in the 1970s. Figuring out the rules is not only to our benefit but also to those who dont know about this product but come across it. Want to Make Your Electric Scooter Go Faster? To help make the decision easier, here are some of the most common places electric skateboarders use. According to my research, people are forbidden to ride an electric skateboard & motorized skateboard on the sidewalk or road in England, Scotland and Wales. Here, Ive also put together some information about some bigger states that. We cover every aspect of buying an electric skateboard so that the user can make an informed decision. Well, the question is more complex than youd think. Anything that causes damage, disturbance, or use under the influence is subject to penalties. In fact, the Washington State laws consider anyone riding a skateboard as a pedestrian. B-restriction limits motor-driven cycle use for anyone 14 years old or above. Frankly, no federal laws are regulating the use of electric skateboards, but it does not mean skateboards are allowed. No person shall ride a motorized vehicle including skateboard on any brickwork, cobblestone or ornamental surface, picnic table, tennis court, fountain area, planter, or sculpture located in a Park. In Indiana, electric foot scooters will have to have . Where bike lanes exist, they are the best option for you to ride your electric skateboard and should be your first choice. Every city can override these laws for their own needs. 41 Sc 12 Provision 4198N states that motorized scooters and skateboards are under the ban at public highways, streets, and sidewalks. Nevertheless, other products successfully faced the hurdle; theres no reason it should be different for the skateboard. Overall, its wise for people using skateboards or roller skates to do so carefully and move at a safe speed. If ever laws catch up enough, people will see the value of micromobility in their lives. I have a background in electrical engineering and I was interested into technology since my early age. Anyone 18 years old or below should wear a helmet and eye protection. An electric personal motor vehicle is an exception for Segway-style vehicles and the like with four different qualifications. Yes, the e skateboard is traveling familiar legal territory. Do not hesitate to contact us or comment our blog posts if you have any questions. Notably, most of the laws came into use in the last 5 years. Overall, e skateboards fall in the same category as Segways and hoverboards- thus, they are illegal when used on public property within the UK. Their operating rules are similar to bicycles, banning operation on sidewalks as per MN 169.225. At that time, some slapped gas engines on skateboards. We spoke with a lawyer, How Fast Do Electric Bikes Go [Electric Bike Speed Guide], How Long Do Ebikes Last: What to Expect from your Electric Bicycle, Electric Bike vs Electric Scooter: Which Is the Better Option for You, How to Ride an Electric Scooter: The Complete Guide, Fantastic Tips on Choosing the Best E-Scooter for Heavy adults (200-370 lbs), Do You Love Riding on Your Favorite Electric Scooter? Share Share Link. The Missouri State Highway Patrol states that electric scooter riders need a valid drivers license. All other bicycle laws apply. Overall, Florida classifies the e skateboard as a vehicle but fails to provide a way to register it as such. Electric skateboards dont have any specific regulations and are subject to local state ordinances. Electric scooters have no clear definition under West Virginia law. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. Florida classifies a motor vehicle an automobile, motorcycle, truck, trailer, semitrailer, truck tractor and semitrailer combination, or any other vehicle operated on the roads of this state, used to transport persons or property, and propelled by power other than muscular power.. What About the UK Are E Skateboards Legal Here? Yes, have fun while riding your e skateboard but do so responsibly and legally. As a result, you can have any form of valid identification to serve this requirement. In addition to this, you are expected to always wear a helmet when operating in public. This is the first question that rushes to mind whenever some think about buying or building these devices. Pennsylvania has legislation in development concerning e-scooters and micromobility. If used on a highway, they have the same rights and responsibilities as a vehicle driver. My goal is to provide you with clear, honest information about electric transport, innovations, and regulations in different countries, to make our common dream true. Laws list skateboarders as pedestrians and allow its use anywhere with limited restrictions. He loves running, gym work out and travelling. Coming down to the state level, the vast majority of states have not made an effort to cater for electric skateboards so well need to assume they will lean on the Federal Laws and consider them technically illegal. Why? In doing so, they should use the road and follow common road traffic rules. The only problem is that not all roadways allow the use of electric skateboards. E skateboards arent propelled entirely by human power. The minimum operator age is 12 years old. No, you dont legally need to insure your electric skateboard before you can operate it in public in Illinois. This means you can ride your electric skateboard on roads and sidewalks as long as it's not in the business district . Streets and roads where bicycles are permitted. As per law, they should not exceed 750 W or less in power. Try to adhere to the laws. Electric skateboards . Basically, here is what you need to adhere to in regards to eskate laws in California: Riding an electric skateboard in public areas is illegal in the state of Florida. The legislature defines e-scooters as: The law notes that electric scooters have the right to use bike lanes but not sidewalks. 18 Fastest Electric Skateboards You Can Buy Today, Best Mini Electric Skateboards & Penny Boards, Best Electric Skateboards For Kids and Teenagers, Best Electric Skateboard DIY Conversion Kits, The Best Electric Skateboards Australia in 2023, Best Electric Skateboards Amazon Has To Offer, The 10 Best Electric Skateboard Lights in 2023, The 5 Best Snowboard Helmets with Bluetooth and Audio, Are Electric Skateboards Worth It? Electric skateboards are defined by law as devices on two or more wheels that are powered by an electric motor and have a maximum speed of no more than 20 miles per hour on paved surfaces. We all want clean cities and safe driving. Check what your local law says. In many places, the law prohibits skateboard riders from crossing the road (except when they cross a street). In doing so, the user needs: Parking follows the same rules as bicycles. For instance, its technically illegal to use a skateboard on property classified as public. Further, you cant ride your board at public schools, state parks, state colleges & universities, airports & county parks, and several other places. They can use bike lanes and should stay on the right side of the roads. Does the law lump them together with e bikes as legal vehicles? For Segway-style scooters, they are under the coverage of Sec. Lets translate this and see how it applies to real-life electric skateboarders. The electric skateboard laws are rider friend with them being legal to ride in public areas, however, there are a few rules that need to be followed in order to comply with the law. In Burlington, e-scooters and the like will follow rules of the road. The roads and paths where you arent allowed to ride an electric skateboard are well signed. As for electric skateboards, they are under explicit ban under New Jersey law. Many allow e-skateboarders to ride their devices on sidewalks and bike paths.