Electric scooter in Lees

Electric scooter in Lees

Yesterday, two youths in Lees were advised regarding the use of electric scooters.

As the school summer holidays begin, please think carefully before purchasing an electric scooter for your child. Privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements, or other public places.

UK Rules

In the UK, it is illegal to ride a privately-owned electric scooter on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes. Police can and will seize privately ridden scooters. You can only legally ride an e-scooter in public if it is part of an official, government-backed rental trial.

1. Privately Owned Scooters

Where you can ride: Strictly on private land with the landowner’s express permission (e.g., your own garden or private estates).

Where you cannot ride: You absolutely cannot ride these on public roads, pavements, parks, or canal towpaths.

Penalties: If caught riding in public, your scooter can be seized, and you risk a fine and penalty points on your driving licence.

2. Rental Trial Scooters

Where you can ride: You can ride these on public roads and cycle lanes in areas where government-backed rental schemes operate.

Where you cannot ride: Pavements and footpaths.

Requirements to ride: You must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid full or provisional driving licence.

Local Schemes: Since you are in the Manchester area, e-scooters are not available through official rental trials (the TfL/Greater Manchester rental trial schemes were permanently ended).

If you are looking for an alternative for commuting that is street-legal, consider a pedal-assisted electric bicycle (e-bike). E-bikes that have pedals and cut out at 15.5 mph are legally classified as standard bicycles and can be ridden on roads and cycle paths without a licence or insurance.

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Message Sent By
mark detheridge
(Greater Manchester Police, pcso, Saddleworth west and Lees q2z5)