Police are reminding e-scooter riders about the laws when it comes to who can ride them and where they can be used. In Barrie, electric scooters can only be operated on private property. They are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, parks, trails, bike paths or any city property, according to police. An exception, police say, is where there’s a specific authorized use. Riders are welcome to make use of the authorized rental program at Centennial Park. Residents and visitors can rent e-scooters and ride them in the central waterfront parks and trails. Police say when operating those e-scooters, the rules under the province’s e-scooter laws apply. According to Ontario law, e-scooter riders have to be over 16 years old and anyone under 18 must wear a helmet. To qualify as an e-scooter, they must have a maximum speed of 24 kilometres per hour, weigh at most roughly 99 pounds and have a motor with a maximum power output of 500 watts. The e-scooter also needs to be equipped with two wheels, brakes, a horn or bell, lighting and reflective material, handlebars and a platform for standing. “We understand the rules can be confusing, especially with so many different types of electric bikes, scooters, and other motorized devices now to buy, but Barrie Police encourages doing your research before making that purchase,” says a spokesperson for Barrie police. “A quick check before you ride can help keep everyone safe on our roads.”
