Micromobility
Micromobility is a general term used to describe lightweight human- or electric-powered modes of travel, such as e-bikes and e-scooters. These modes of transportation are typically single-person vehicles used for shorter trips.
Types of micromobility devices
The below micromobility devices are permitted on Vaughan roadways, bike lanes, cycle tracks and in-boulevard multi-use pathways:
E-bikes
E-bikes are small, compact, low-speed and electrically-powered vehicles. They have an electric motor, working pedals, two or three wheels, a handlebar for steering and a braking system.
E-scooters
An e-scooter (electric kick-scooter) is a motorized vehicle with two wheels – one at the front and one at the back – brakes, a platform to stand on, a handlebar for steering, a white light in the front and a red light on the rear, a bell or horn, reflective material and a maximum wheel diameter of 17 inches.
The following micromobility devices are NOT PERMITTED in Vaughan:
Segways, e-hoverboards and e-unicycles are not permitted on Vaughan roadways, bike lanes, cycle tracks, in-boulevard multi-use pathways, sidewalks, multi-use recreational trails, parks and playgrounds.
| Segway | E-Hoverboard | E-unicycle |
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Frequently asked questions
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To ride an e-bike, you must:
• be at least 16 years old.
• wear an approved motorcycle or bike helmet.
• follow regulations like other cyclists.
• maintain your e-bike in good working order.To ride an e-scooter, you must:
• be at least 16 years old.
• stand at all times while riding.
• wear a bicycle helmet. -
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In Vaughan, you can ride an e-bike or e-scooter on:
• roadways with posted speeds less than or equal to 50 kilometres per hour
• bike lanes
• cycle tracks
• in-boulevard multi-use pathwaysWheelchairs and medical scooters are designed for people who have limited mobility because of a medical condition or injury. They are considered as pedestrians under the Highway Traffic Act. Under the City’s Traffic By-law 284-94, a pedestrian includes a person in a wheelchair and child in a baby carriage, therefore motorized wheelchairs can travel where pedestrians are allowed, such as sidewalks and multi-use pathways.
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You must practice safe riding etiquette when on an e-bike or e-scooter. This includes:
- wearing an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet.
- keeping your device in good working order.
- following the same rules of the road as other cyclists.
View cycling safety tips at vaughan.ca/cycling. You can also visit the Ontario Government’s safe cycling webpage to learn more.
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The maximum assisted speed for e-bikes is 32 kilometres per hour, and maximum operating speed of 24 kilometres per hour for e-scooters.
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The below outlines where each type of micromobility device is and is not allowed in Vaughan.
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As power-assisted micromobility use continues to grow in popularity, the City is currently working on developing an education and outreach program to provide information, encourage feedback and educate the public on safe operations of these devices.
Staff have reached out to elementary and high-schools in Vaughan to engage students about micromobility and the proper etiquette to ensure safety for both riders and other road users. Staff are also looking to provide a connected cycling network, identify infrastructure improvements and proper signage to make it clear where these devices can operate safely.
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Please report unsafe usage to Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or service@vaughan.ca and provide the date, location and nature of the incident. By-law officers frequently patrol public spaces – like parks – and will respond as required.
Concerns can also be reported to York Regional Police through the non-emergency phone line at 1-866-876-5423 or by completing the online form at yrp.ca.
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You can subscribe online to join the micromobility mailing list and stay informed with updates and opportunities for feedback.
Where to ride your e-bike or e-scooter
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Bike lanes are a portion of a roadway designated by pavement markings and signage for use by people riding bikes or e-bikes. These lanes are separated from motor vehicle lanes by a white painted line and are for one-way traffic only.
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Cycle tracks are different than bike lanes as they are separated from vehicular traffic by a curb and buffer. Cycle tracks typically run parallel to a sidewalk and are designated exclusively for people riding bikes or e-bikes.
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In-boulevard multi-use pathways are lanes designated for travel by pedestrians, bicycles, e-bikes or e-scooters. They are separated from the roadway by a curb or buffer.
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Roadway means that part of the highway that is improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular traffic, but does not include the shoulder. E-scooters are only allowed on roadways with posted speed of 50 kilometers per hour or less, where there is no parallel cycling facilities available.
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