As e-bikes and e-scooters become more popular in the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM), understanding the local rules is essential to staying safe and legal on the roads, trails, and in parks.
E-scooters are allowed on multi-use pathways, bike lanes, and roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less. Riders must be at least 14 years old, wear a helmet, and ensure their scooter does not exceed 25 km/h on a roadway or bicycle lane or at a speed in excess of 15 km/h on a multi-use pathway. Sidewalk riding is not permitted, and riders must yield to pedestrians on shared paths.
E-scooters are permitted in some parks, but only on active transportation greenways and designated multi-use pathways. They are not allowed on unpaved trails, boardwalks, or in off-leash dog parks. Currently, e-scooters are allowed in the following municipal parks:
- Mainland Linear Trail
- Chain of Lakes Trail
- Halifax Common pathways
- Mcintosh Run Trail
- AT Trail around Lake Banook, from Star Park to Brookdale Crescent
- The Dartmouth Waterfront Active Transportation Trail (between Alderney and Woodside ferry terminals)
- Portland Lakes Trail from Baker Drive and Freshwater Trail to Waterside Terrace
E-bikes are permitted in bike lanes, on shared-use paths, and on many municipal trails when they meet the definition of a “power-assisted bicycle” (operable pedals, motor under 500 watts, max speed 32 km/h). Riders must wear helmets and follow all standard traffic rules.
To learn more and stay up to date, visit the HRM website on e-scooters and e-bikes.
