PSNI: E-bikes and scooters have ‘become a challenging issue’

An e-scooter is an electrically-powered vehicle consisting of a narrow foot platform mounted on wheels, attached to a long, narrow steering column with handlebars.

Users travel by standing on the platform, known as a deck, and are propelled forward by an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery.

Owning, buying or selling an e-scooter is not illegal in Northern Ireland but they can only be used on private land and only if the landowner gives their permission.

Last year, police said there was “no specific offence” for using an e-scooter on public roads, external in Northern Ireland.

But officers can enforce other rules in relation to them, such as having no vehicle excise duty – usually referred to as car tax or road tax – or insurance, which the user is unlikely to have for an off-road vehicle.

“We need the public to understand the legalities in relation to e-scooters, as we see how children are using them as a toy, similar to bikes and how they’re bought as presents, for example birthdays or at Christmas,” Ch Supt Donaldson said.

“Adults use e-scooters as a means to get from place-to place, e.g. work, to the shop, and as a cheap and environmentally friendly mode of transport.

“We also see how e-scooters are used as a vehicle for those involved in anti-social behaviour.

“Regardless of how they’re being used, we are appealing to anyone who owns and rides an e-scooter to stop using it in public. To anyone considering buying one for themselves, or as a present, think twice. They can only be ridden on private property with the owner’s permission.

“Using them in public spaces is illegal.”