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FORT McMURRAY — The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is reminding residents that electric scooters and other miniature vehicles are prohibited in public spaces, as RCMP and municipal bylaw officers increase education and enforcement efforts across the region.
The municipality says e-scooter use has increased this spring on roads, sidewalks, trails and other public areas, creating safety concerns for riders, pedestrians and motorists.
Under the municipality’s Roads and Transportation Bylaw, miniature vehicles include e-scooters, pocket bikes, golf carts, motorized skateboards, go-carts and personal transporters. The bylaw uses the same definition of a miniature vehicle found in Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act.
Municipal officials say e-scooters were already prohibited under provincial legislation before council approved the Roads and Transportation Bylaw in July 2025, which clarified fines and penalties for violations.
RCMP and bylaw officers have generally taken an education-first approach when encountering illegal e-scooter use. However, the municipality says officers are increasingly issuing tickets and impounding e-scooters in response to ongoing unsafe and illegal activity.
The fine for operating an e-scooter in a public space is $500.
Public spaces covered by the bylaw include streets, sidewalks, parks and trails.
Municipal officials are encouraging residents, particularly parents of children who own e-scooters, to familiarize themselves with local bylaws and provincial traffic regulations before operating any vehicle or equipment in public areas.
E-scooters may continue to be used on private property.
The municipality is also reminding pedestrians, cyclists and motorists to follow traffic laws, use designated crossings, remain alert near roadways and exercise caution around school and playground zones.
Officials say the increased enforcement effort is intended to help keep public spaces safe, accessible and enjoyable for all users.
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