COQUITLAM RCMP are reminding the public of the importance of understanding the laws surrounding micromobility vehicles.
Police are reminding the public that electric bikes, electric scooters, mopeds (limited‑speed motorcycles), and pocket bikes are subject to very different legal requirements, and misunderstanding those differences can result in fines or vehicle seizure.
* Electric bikes (e‑bikes) are bicycles with fully operable pedals and an electric motor. Riders must be 14 years or older for light e‑bikes and 16 or older for standard e‑bikes. Light e-bikes can travel at as maximum speed of 25 kilometres per hour while standard e-bikes can travel at speeds up to 32 kilometres per hour. No licence, registration, or insurance is required, but helmets are mandatory and e‑bikes may only be used where bicycles are permitted.
* Most high‑powered electric dirt bikes are not legal e‑bikes, because they typically cannot be registered or insured as limited‑speed motorcycles, they are not permitted on public roads, sidewalks, or bike lanes, and may only be used off‑road or on private property. Parks, school fields or greenways open to public use are not considered off-road. Additionally, If the public can reasonably access the area, it is considered a public place and not off-road.
* Electric scooters (e‑scooters) have a maximum speed of 25 kilometres per hour and are only legal in communities participating in the provincial e‑scooter pilot project, such as Coquitlam, and must meet strict equipment and operating requirements. E-scooters can only be operated in designated bike lanes or roads with speed limits of 50 kilometres per hour or less; e-scooters cannot be operated on sidewalks unless signage indicates it is permitted. In communities such as Anmore, Belcarra, and Port Coquitlam, where they are not permitted, e‑scooters are illegal on public roads, sidewalks, and pathways, and riders may be subject to tickets or enforcement action.
* Mopeds and limited‑speed motorcycles are treated as motor vehicles. These vehicles do not require pedals and may be gas‑ or electric‑powered. Riders must hold a valid driver’s licence, the vehicle must be registered and insured, and a motorcycle helmet is required. They are permitted on roadways only.
* Pocket bikes and mini‑motorcycles, which are small, motorcycle‑style bikes, are not legal for use on public roads, sidewalks, or bike lanes in British Columbia, regardless of the rider’s age. These vehicles cannot be registered or insured and are intended for off‑road or private property use only.
Whether you are operating a truck or an electric bike, all vehicles must obey the rules of the road. Failing to stop for police has serious consequences. Riders who do not stop when directed may face charges under:
- Motor Vehicle Act s. 73(1) – Fail to stop for peace officer
- Criminal Code s. 320.17 – Flight from a peace officer
Attempting to flee police significantly escalates enforcement and can result in arrest, criminal charges, and lengthy driving prohibitions.
Police continue to focus on education, but enforcement action will be taken when unsafe riding, repeat violations, or attempts to evade police are observed. Riders and parents are encouraged to confirm whether a device is legal for road use before operating it.
