Manitoba is preparing to introduce new regulations for electric scooters and other personal electric vehicles in 2027, establishing minimum age requirements, speed limits and rules governing where the devices can be used.
The changes aim to improve road safety as e-scooters, electric skateboards, hoverboards and similar devices become increasingly popular across the province.
According to the Manitoba government, the new rules will be introduced under amendments to The Highway Traffic Act. The legislation is intended to provide clearer guidance for riders while helping pedestrians, cyclists and motorists safely share public spaces.
Minimum Age and Mandatory Helmets
Under the new regulations, riders of most personal electric vehicles must be at least 16 years old to operate them on highways or bicycle facilities.
Helmet use will also be compulsory. Riders and any permitted passengers must wear properly fitted helmets to reduce the risk of serious injuries during collisions or falls.
The rules will apply to devices such as electric kick-scooters, electric skateboards, electric unicycles and hoverboards that meet the legislation’s definition of personal electric vehicles.
Power-assisted bicycles have separate age provisions, with eligible riders allowed to operate them from age 14 under the amended legislation.
Maximum Speed Set at 25 Km/h
The province will impose a maximum operating speed of 25 kilometres per hour for covered personal electric vehicles.
Riders will generally be permitted to use roads with posted speed limits of 50 km/h or less, as well as designated bicycle lanes, pathways and cycling facilities, subject to local regulations.
The devices will not be allowed on sidewalks unless signs specifically permit their use. Riders must also obey traffic signals and signs, travel in single file, use hand signals when turning or stopping, and avoid riding while impaired.
Additional requirements include using appropriate lights and reflectors at night and refraining from using handheld electronic devices while riding.
Cities Prepare for New Safety Rules
The upcoming regulations come amid growing concerns about e-scooter safety, including collisions involving young riders. Winnipeg officials have said they are reviewing how municipal bylaws may need to change to align with the provincial legislation.
Authorities hope clearer rules will reduce confusion and encourage responsible use of personal electric vehicles while protecting other road users.
Although the legislation has passed, the province’s official guidance identifies 2027 as the planned introduction period. Riders should check for implementation updates before assuming every provision is already enforceable.
Swifteradio.com
