Seasonal ban on e-bikes and e-scooters on TTC now in effect

A food delivery courier rides an e-bike in Toronto on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

A seasonal ban on e-bikes and e-scooters on TTC property and vehicles is now in effect.

The ban, which was first introduced in 2024, will remain in place until April 15.

In a news release, the TTC pointed to a Dec. 2023 incident involving a battery explosion and a fire on a subway train as the reason for the ban. There are also complaints related to battery safety and the bulkiness of the devices, according to the TTC.

READ MORE: Battery fires increasing in Toronto: city

“E-bikes and e-scooters can be parked at or near entrances to most subway stations or at City of Toronto bike storage rooms,” the release said.

Bayview, Don Mills, Finch, Finch West, Kennedy, Kipling, Sheppard West, and Yorkdale stations all have bike lockers, along with some Civic Centres and GO Transit stations.

The ban is enforced over the winter due to “a greater risk in fluctuating temperatures seen during colder months,” which may increase the chances of short circuits and fires, according to the TTC.

READ MORE: TTC staff recommending winter ban on e-bikes and e-scooters due to fire risk

The ban includes loading e-bikes on to city bus bike racks, the TTC said. The ban still applies if the batteries are removed from an e-bike or e-scooter as the TTC says its not “practical or feasible to inspect the battery of each e-bike or e-scooter entering the system.” However, the does not apply to electric wheelchairs or other mobility devices, which will continue to be allowed on the TTC system.

Anyone with an e-bike or e-scooter on the TTC during the ban will be educated, “and if they refuse to comply, they will be asked to leave the system,” the TTC said. Refusing to respect the ban could result in a fine or arrest, the agency said.