The rising popularity of battery-powered bikes and scooters has led to an increase in injuries and complaints due to the lack of regulations. However, the City of Morden in Manitoba has now implemented clear rules to address this issue. Violating these rules can result in a $50 fine, and persistent violations may lead to the impoundment of the vehicle.
According to Morden Police Chief Sean Aune, the primary focus is on safety and public education, particularly targeting young riders who often use these vehicles without helmets and in an unregulated manner. Recently, Morden amended its traffic control bylaw to encompass all personal electric vehicles (PEVs), such as e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-skateboards, becoming the first municipality in the province to do so.
The regulatory framework for PEVs on public roads, including minimum age requirements and speed limits, was set by the provincial government through Bill 43, which officially passed on June 1 but is pending implementation. Municipalities have the flexibility to tailor these rules to their specific needs through local bylaws.
While the provincial framework provides a foundation, municipalities like Winnipeg are still evaluating necessary changes to align with the new regulations. Differentiating between urban and rural contexts, Morden aims to create rules that suit its community’s unique requirements regarding PEV usage.
Other municipalities are considering following Morden’s lead in regulating PEVs, but concerns exist around enforcing these rules effectively, especially in smaller communities where resources may be limited. In Morden, enforcement will be overseen by the city’s police officers and bylaw officer, prioritizing compliance and safety over immediate punitive actions.
