Whitby e-scooter rules could become stricter after council unanimously asked staff to examine whether parents and guardians can be held accountable when children younger than 16 use electric scooters or e-bikes.
Councillors voted 9-0 for the review following a motion from East Ward Coun. Victoria Bozinovski. The request does not create a new offence; staff must report on legal options and enforcement.
Review focuses on underage riders
Whitby’s existing bylaw sets 16 as the minimum age and requires a helmet. The motion asks whether a penalty could apply to a parent or guardian who authorizes or knowingly permits younger use.
Bozinovski cited complaints about speed, road and trail use, and missing helmets. Coun. Niki Lundquist said complaints are frequent. Regional Coun. Rhonda Mulcahy supported the motion while noting provincial regulations are expected this fall.
No immediate rule change
Existing rules remain in place. Any new penalty would require further council action after the staff report.
