E-scooters and e-bikes

Electric scooters (e-scooters) and electric bikes (e-bikes) are becoming increasingly popular as they are seen as fun and exciting. Many people are unaware of the legal requirements surrounding their use or the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

This guide explains what is legal, what is not, the potential consequences of illegal use, and how to safely charge and store batteries.

E-Scooters and the law

The use of private e-scooters is currently illegal on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, and public spaces in the UK. The law is clear on this. The only place an e-scooter can be used is on private land with the landowner's permission.

E-scooters are treated as motor vehicles and subject to the same legal requirements such as:

  • MOT
  • insurance
  • valid driving licence
  • vehicle registration

Privately owned e-scooters are unlikely to meet these requirements.

Rental e-scooters

Rental e-scooters are only permitted as part of authorised government trials and are subject to strict regulations. There is no such designated scheme in the Arun district.

Consequences of illegal e-scooter use

Using a privately owned e-scooter on public roads or pavements may result in:

  • police seizure of the vehicle
  • a summons to court
  • parent or youth rider being issued with Community Protection Warning/Notice
  • fixed penalty notices
  • potential prosecution for road traffic offences
  • dismantling and destruction of the vehicle

As e-scooters are treated as motor vehicles under the road traffic legislation, riders can also face penalties relating to insurance and vehicle offences.

E-Bikes and the law

Most e-bikes are not legally allowed to be used on public roads. These vehicles can be extremely high powered and do not meet bicycle regulation standards. The law considers e-bikes in the same way as mopeds or motorcycles if it:

  • exceeds 250 watts continuous power
  • provides motor assistance above 15.5mph
  • has been modified to remove speed restrictions
  • does not have functioning pedals
  • includes an "off-road mode" that enables higher-powered public-road use

If classified as a motor vehicle, it must be:

  • registered
  • taxed
  • insured
  • used by a licensed rider
  • accompanied by an approved motorcycle helmet

Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and seizure of the vehicle.

Legal e-bikes (EAPCs)

Some e-bikes are specifically manufactured and approved for road use. These are classed as Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs). To qualify as an EAPC, the bike must: 

  • have working pedals that can propel the bike
  • have a motor rated at no more than 250 watts continuous power
  • stop providing motor assistance when the bike reaches 15.5mph (25km/h)
  • be ridden by someone aged 14 or over

Safety risks for riders of illegal e-scooters and e-bikes

Illegal or irresponsible use of e-scooters and e-bikes can pose significant risks to riders, pedestrians and the wider community. Key concerns include:

  • increased risk of serious injury or death due to collisions, excessive speed, unsafe riding practices and lack of protective equipment.
  • danger to pedestrians, particularly older people, disabled people, and families with young children, through pavement riding and near misses. 
  • antisocial behaviour, including reckless riding, nuisance behaviour and the intimidation of other public space users. 
  • criminal misuse, where e-scooters and e-bikes may be used to facilitate offences such as theft, robbery or drug-related activity. 
  • fire risks associated with damaged, modified or poorly maintained lithium-ion batteries. 
  • reduced feelings of safety in local neighbourhoods, parks and town centres.

Safe battery charging and storage

Most e-bikes and e-scooters use lithium-ion batteries. While generally safe, counterfeit, modified, damaged, or poorly maintained batteries can cause severe fires.

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service provide the following advice on charging batteries and electronic devices:

  • only purchase electronic devices and chargers from reputable retailers to ensure they meet UK product safety standards.
  • if there is a chance that the battery could be damaged, do not use the device.
  • always use the charger supplied with the device or recommended by the manufacturer.
  • charge the device on a flat, solid and stable surface. Never leave your mobile phone charging under a pillow.
  • don't leave a device charging while unattended or overnight. Unplug the charger when the device has finished charging.
  • keep the device away from flammable materials while charging.
  • never charge e-bikes or e-scooters in hallways or stairwells where they could block your escape. Try to charge and store them away from living areas.
  • do not throw batteries or electronic devices away in your household bins. Take them to a recycling centre or check if your local council offers a collection service. Find out how to recycle batteries and electricals.

If a battery begins to smoke or catches fire, get out, stay out, and call 999 immediately.

Questions for parents and carers

Before purchasing, or allowing a child or young person to ride, one of these vehicles, please consider:

  1. is it legal where they intend to ride it?
  2. does it require registration, insurance or a licence?
  3. could they be liable if injury or damage occurs as a result of the riding it?
  4. are they experienced enough to control it safely?

Key messages

Private e-scooters cannot be legally used on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes.

Rental e-scooters may only be used within authorised trial schemes and must not be ridden on pavements.

Road-legal e-bikes must meet Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations.

Modified or high-powered e-bikes may be treated as motor vehicles and require registration, insurance and a licence.

Always charge and store lithium-ion batteries safely to reduce the risk of fire. 

Reporting misuse of e-scooters and e-bikes

If you witness the illegal, dangerous or antisocial use of an e-scooter or e-bike, there are several ways you can report it. Reporting incidents helps the council and police identify problem areas, take enforcement action where appropriate, and improve community safety.

When to contact the Police

You should report incidents to the police if you witness:

  • dangerous or reckless riding.
  • riding on pavements in a manner that endangers pedestrians.
  • antisocial behaviour involving e-scooters or e-bikes.
  • suspected criminal activity, such as theft, drug-related activity or robbery.
  • collisions resulting in injury or damage.

Report these issues to Sussex Police via 101 or online.

In an emergency, or if a crime is in progress, always call 999.

When to contact the council's Antisocial Behaviour team

If the use of e-scooters or e-bikes is linked to the following behaviours, you can use the council's online antisocial behaviour reporting tool.

  • Anti-social behaviour.
  • Nuisance riding in parks, open spaces or town centres.
  • Community safety concerns affecting public spaces.

Reports can help identify locations where education, enforcement or environmental improvements may be needed.

Information that can help

When making a report, try to provide:

  • the date and time of the incident.
  • the exact location.
  • a description of the rider(s).
  • details of the e-scooter or e-bike, including colour and distinguishing features.
  • photographs or video evidence, where safe and lawful to obtain.
  • details of any injuries, damage or risks posed to others. 

Why reporting matters

Community reporting helps partners, including the police and the council to:

  • identify repeat problem locations.
  • target enforcement activity.
  • address antisocial behaviour.
  • improve public safety.
  • develop education and awareness campaigns.

By reporting misuse responsibly, residents can play an important role in helping to keep local communities safe and ensuring that e-scooters and e-bikes are used legally and considerately.