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Electric kick scooter rules in Burnaby, BC
Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
Burnaby joined BC’s electric kick scooter pilot in January 2026. Riders must be at least 16 and wear a helmet, with strict limits on devices and riding locations.
Key information
Burnaby joined BC’s electric kick scooter pilot in January 2026. Riders must be at least 16 and wear a helmet, with strict limits on devices and riding locations.
On this page
Rider and device requirements
A legal pilot scooter has handlebars, a standing platform and two to four wheels. It is powered only by an electric motor, with maximum continuous output of 500 watts, top speed capability of 25 km/h and unloaded weight no more than 45 kilograms.
Working brakes, front and rear lights, a rear reflector and a bell or horn are required. Riders must be at least 16. A driver’s licence and insurance are not required for a compliant scooter under the pilot.
Choose an allowed route
Use a bike lane where available, or keep as far right as safely possible. Ordinary roads must have a speed limit of 50 km/h or lower. On faster roads, Major Road Network routes and arterial roads such as Kingsway, Canada Way and Hastings Street, use a designated cycling lane or multi-use facility rather than the road or shoulder.
Sidewalks, crosswalks, parks and park trails are not allowed unless signs explicitly permit scooter use. A route that looks wide or quiet is not enough evidence that it is permitted.
Ride predictably and visibly
Wear a correctly fitted bicycle helmet. Ride single file, obey signals and right-of-way, keep at least one hand on the bars and signal intentions. Slow down around crossings, transit stops, driveways and pedestrians.
Use lights from sunset to sunrise and in poor visibility. Do not ride impaired, carry a passenger, use a phone or earbuds, or carry objects that affect grip or balance. Check brakes, tyres, lights and battery before leaving.
Report dangerous riding
Burnaby’s stated non-emergency RCMP number is 604-646-9999. The pilot is a regulated programme, not general permission for any electric device. Review the linked BC technical rules before buying or modifying a scooter.
Quick reference
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 16 |
| Motor output | Maximum continuous 500 W |
| Speed capability | Maximum 25 km/h |
| Unloaded weight | Maximum 45 kg |
| Passengers | Not allowed |
| Sidewalks and park trails | Only where signs explicitly permit |
What to do next
- Check the device
Confirm weight, speed, power and safety equipment.
- Plan the route
Use permitted lanes and avoid prohibited arterial shoulders.
- Ride safely
Wear a helmet, use lights and carry no passenger.
10 useful questions
How old must I be to ride an e-scooter?
At least 16 under the Burnaby pilot rules.
Do I need a driver’s licence?
No, for a compliant electric kick scooter in the pilot.
Is a helmet required?
Yes. A properly fitted bicycle helmet is mandatory.
Can a scooter be capable of 40 km/h?
Not under this pilot category. Maximum speed capability is 25 km/h.
What is the motor limit?
Maximum continuous output is 500 watts.
Can I carry a friend?
No. Passengers are prohibited.
Can I ride on the sidewalk?
Only where signs explicitly permit it.
Can I ride on a park trail?
Only where signs explicitly permit scooter use.
Can I use the shoulder of Kingsway?
No. The City requires a designated cycling lane or multi-use facility on arterial roads.
How do I report unsafe riding?
Call Burnaby RCMP’s non-emergency line at 604-646-9999.
Official information and forms
This guide covers the municipal service in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Fees and active service notices can change. Use the linked official page for the application or latest notice.