Wood Buffalo Council Approves New Transportation Bylaw, Bans E-Scooters in Public Spaces
FORT McMURRAY, AB.— The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo has passed a new Roads and Transportation Bylaw aimed at enhancing public safety and clarifying traffic rules across the region.
Approved during Tuesday night’s council meeting, Bylaw No. 25/020 replaces the previous bylaw, which had been in effect since 2002 with only minor amendments. The updated legislation aligns with provincial standards and introduces clearer regulations for the use of roads and public spaces by pedestrians and drivers alike.
A key component of the new bylaw is the prohibition of e-scooters in all public areas. While previously not permitted, a lack of clear regulations had made enforcement difficult. The new bylaw outlines specific rules banning e-scooters from sidewalks, trails, paths and roads across the region. Use is only permitted on private property.
Bylaw Services will take an education-first approach when addressing e-scooter violations, but fines of up to $500 may be issued for non-compliance. Human-powered scooters remain permitted in public spaces, provided riders wear helmets and follow traffic laws.
Municipal officials say the new bylaw addresses growing public safety concerns and provides clarity for residents about what is and isn’t allowed in shared spaces.
The bylaw also reinforces key traffic safety practices for all road users. Pedestrians are advised to make eye contact with drivers when using crosswalks to ensure they are seen. Cyclists must wear helmets and yield to all other users when riding on sidewalks. Playground zones are in effect daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with a speed limit of 30 km/h.
The municipality says the new bylaw is designed to improve compliance, education and enforcement tools to support safer communities across Wood Buffalo.
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