Understanding Bird Scooter Legality in Milwaukee: A Comprehensive Guide

Are Bird Scooters Legal in Milwaukee? Addressing Urban Mobility with Clarity

With the rising popularity of electric scooters for efficient and eco-friendly urban transport, Milwaukee residents and visitors alike are often curious about the legality of one of the prominent scooter brands - Bird. We're addressing this currently by providing a full view on the legal standpoint as of our latest update.

Milwaukee's stance on electric scooters, including Bird scooters, has evolved over time. As of our knowledge cutoff in early 2023, Bird scooters are legal in Milwaukee, following the statewide legalization of electric scooters in 2019 by Wisconsin's Act 11, which categorized electric scooters as 'motor bicycles.'

Bird, as a company, operates through a dockless electric scooter share system, which allows users to rent scooters for one-way trips around the city. However, their operation is subject to city regulations. Milwaukee has granted licenses to several electric scooter companies, including Bird, to operate within city limits, with clear guidelines to ensure the safety and organization of their use in public spaces.

Users must adhere to the following regulations:

• Scooters are to be ridden in bike lanes or on roads with a speed limit of 25 mph or less.


• Sidewalk riding is prohibited to ensure pedestrian safety.


• Parking scooters should not obstruct pedestrian paths or accessibility.


• All riders are encouraged to wear helmets and abide by the standard traffic laws applicable to bicycles.

Considering the increased interest in sustainable modes of transportation, Milwaukee has welcomed Bird scooters as part of its multi-modal transit solutions, giving residents and visitors a quick and convenient way to navigate the cityscape while reducing carbon footprints.

Before riding a Bird scooter in Milwaukee, riders should stay updated with local regulations as they may change, and ensure compliance with all safety measures to optimize their riding experience responsibly within the city.

For those looking to incorporate Bird scooters into their daily commute or touristic exploration of Milwaukee, embracing these regulations will not only keep you on the right side of the law but will also contribute to a safer and more efficient transport system within the vibrant city of Milwaukee.