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I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Nuisance motorbikes / Scooters, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.
E-scooters
Can I ride an e-scooter on a public road? I bought it from a reputable retailer so what's the issue?
These and other questions answered below.
E-scooters
Can e-scooters be ridden on public roads?
No – they can only be ridden on private land, with the landowner’s permission.
What about on the pavement or cycle lanes?
Still no. The law says they cannot be used on public places, including roads, pavements, parks or cycle lanes.
So why was I allowed to buy one, if I can’t actually use it?
You are allowed to buy or sell e-scooters, and you can use them on private land (with permission).
Why don’t you work with retailers so that customers know the law before buying?
We are working with retailers to explain the law. But, of course, the buying and selling of e-scooters is allowed.
E-scooters are much greener and more efficient than some other modes of transport!
This is about the safety of e-scooter users, and other road users – including pedestrians.
Why are e-scooters seen as dangerous?
E-scooters don’t have things such as number plates, signalling ability, and not always visible rear lights. Riders also don’t often have appropriate safety equipment. Other road users may be put at risk.
Isn’t it an issue with motorists, not e-scooter users?
All road users have a responsibility to do so carefully and with respect for others, and our teams do take action against those responsible for illegal driving every day.
Are e-scooters seen as more dangerous than pedal cycles?
E-scooters and pedal cycles are classified differently under the law. As Mechanically Propelled Vehicles (MPVs) or Personal Low Emission Vehicles (PLEVs), the law says e-scooters can’t be used on the road or any other public place.
OK, so what about electric bikes?
Electrically assisted pedal cycles are allowed in public places if they have pedals able to propel it, the electric motor’s power doesn’t exceed a specified limit, electrical assistance cuts out when the vehicle reaches 15.5mph, and the rider is not under 14 years old. All other electric bikes are treated the same way as e-scooters: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs-in-great-britain-information-sheet
I heard that scooters that have a maximum speed of 5mph are allowed.
E-scooters have a maximum permissible speed of 15.5mph. There is nothing in legislation permitting the use of e-scooters limited to 5mph on a road or public place.
I’ve seen e-scooters being ridden legally elsewhere – how come?
Some areas in England are undergoing a trial where their use is allowed (but regulated) on public land and roads. No such trials are taking place in Wales: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/e-scooter-trials-guidance-for-users
Are e-scooter users breaking any other laws?
There are numerous potential offences that could potentially be prosecuted, including using a vehicle with no insurance; riding carelessly or dangerously; contravening traffic signals; or for drink/drug-riding.
Am I OK to ride my e-scooter if I have a driving licence?
Technically you need a category Q entitlement to ride an e-scooter, which anyone with a full or provisional licence will have. However, the law still states you cannot ride them on public roads or land. In addition, anyone without a licence can be prosecuted for that offence as well.
Tackling antisocial behaviour can be a complex issue, and one which requires input and action from more than just the police. February 2025 saw the publication of the Ministry of Justice Crime and Policing Bill: Antisocial behaviour (ASB) factsheet. This outlined a number of new measures including making powers to seize vehicles under section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 easier to use, allowing the police to react robustly and immediately to the anti-social use of motor vehicles. If you witness a motor vehicle or mechanically propelled vehicle being driven/ridden in an anti-social manner in a public place or on a public road, or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at www.southwalespolice.police.uk, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Get Involved Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey. We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 
Please click here to complete the survey
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