Are Electric Scooters Legal in Cincinnati?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
**Rules of the Road & Parking**
1. Electric scooters are to be ridden on roads, in bike lanes, or on multiuse paths, not on pedestrian-only sidewalks. Riders are to obey all traffic laws, including traffic signals and stop signs, and are highly recommended to wear helmets for safety.
2. Only one person is allowed on an electric scooter at a time. Riding with passengers, or tandem, is not allowed.
3. When parking e-scooters, they must not obstruct pedestrian routes or access for individuals with disabilities. They should be left standing upright in designated areas that do not block:
- Bus stops
- Loading zones
- Accessible parking spaces
- Curb ramps
- Driveways
- Trails and bike paths
- Red Bike rental stations
Appropriate parking areas include the furniture zone of sidewalks, ensuring at least a 6-foot clearance for pedestrians, or adjacent to the street in areas not obstructed by landscaping.
Rules of the Road & Parking
Riding small vehicles is prohibited on pedestrian sidewalks but permissible on multiuse (bike/pedestrian) paths. Riders must obey all traffic laws and are strongly encouraged to wear helmets.
Riding tandem (two or more persons) on an e-scooter is prohibited.
E-scooters may be parked on the sidewalk, but only in locations that do not impede the normal flow of pedestrian traffic, including access to and travel upon the sidewalk area by persons with restricted mobility such as wheelchair users. An e-scooter shall not impede the normal flow of pedestrian traffic.
E-scooters should be parked upright:
- in the furniture zone of the sidewalks (leave a 6' pathway for people who are walking, rolling or strolling); OR
- in the sidewalk zone adjacent to the street (i.e., the collector/planting strip if not landscaped).
When parking your e-scooter, do NOT block:
- bus stops;
- loading zones;
- accessible parking zones;
- curb ramps;
- driveways;
- greenways/multiuse trails/rail trails; or
- Cincinnati Red Bike rental kiosks
Max Speed
E-scooters are typically limited to a max speed of 15 to 20 mph, depending on the scooter model and local regulations.
Minimum Age
Riders usually must be at least 18 years old to rent e-scooters, though some providers may allow riders aged 16 or 17 with a valid driver’s license.
Helmets Required?
Helmets are recommended for all riders for safety, but the requirement may vary based on rider age and local ordinances.
