Are Electric Scooters Legal in Baltimore?
MDBaltimore
Fully Legal
Quick Facts
Max Speed
15 mph on roadways or as posted.
Minimum Age
No person under the age of 16 is permitted to rent an electric scooter; however, private ownership and use by individuals under 16 are subject to parental discretion and local helmet laws.
Helmets Required?
Yes, for riders under the age of 18.
Summary
Baltimore’s 2024–25 dockless permits keep Spin and Lime operating; ride in bike lanes or the right lane, avoid sidewalks except on streets signed 30 mph or higher, park upright without blocking sidewalks, ramps, or bus stops, and use 311 so companies fix misparked scooters within hours.
Detailed Information
Baltimore DOT awarded the July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025 dockless permits to Spin and Lime after revising the program’s safety, equity, fleet-size, and parking rules. Scooter riders are instructed to use bicycle facilities when they exist, otherwise keep to the right side of the lane, yield to pedestrians, and stay off sidewalks unless the adjacent roadway carries a 30 mph or higher limit; even then they must travel slowly and courteously. Devices must be staged upright where they do not block sidewalks, curb ramps, transit stops, driveways, or doorways, and companies risk removal if their fleets impede access. A December 2024 update added a dedicated 311 category for misparked scooters and e-bikes, requiring Lime and Spin to address complaints within six hours (and close tickets within 24 hours), giving residents a clear enforcement channel while the city continues installing painted parking corrals and offering discounts for compliant parking.
Official References
Updated on November 10th, 2025
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