Are Electric Scooters Legal in Long Beach?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
In Long Beach, individuals must be at least 18 years old to use shared e-scooter platforms. The laws adhered to are part of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) and Long Beach Municipal Code (LBMC): (1) E-scooters must be parked in a manner that does not hinder pedestrian traffic, maintaining clear pathways (CVC §21235i). (2) Helmets are mandatory for riders of all ages when operating e-scooters (CVC §21235c; LBMC can apply to local changes if the state law changes regarding helmet usage). (3) Riding e-scooters on sidewalks is strictly forbidden (CVC §21235g). (4) In areas where bicycle lanes are available, e-scooter riders must use these lanes (CVC §21229a). (5) E-scooters are not allowed on private property without the property owner's consent (LBMC 9.42.100a). There may be additional codes and regulations involving proper identification and lights for night riding.
Only riders 18 years of age or older can utilize e-scooter sharing platforms, and they must comply with the following sections of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) and Long Beach Municipal Code (LBMC):
- E-scooters must be parked upright in a position so that they do not block pedestrian traffic on sidewalks, bikeways or paths (CVC §21235i).
- All riders must wear helmets, regardless of age (CVC §21235c). Riders can request a free helmet from each operator.
- E-scooters cannot be ridden on the sidewalk anywhere in Long Beach (CVC §21235g).
- When there is a bike lane present, scooters must ride within that lane (CVC §21229a).
- E-scooter riders cannot ride on private property (LBMC 9.42.100a).
Max Speed
15 mph as per California Vehicle Code for electric scooters on public roads (CVC §22411).
Minimum Age
18 years for shared e-scooter platforms.
Helmets Required?
Yes, for all riders regardless of age (CVC §21235c; note that state laws may alter helmet requirements which could impact local regulations).
