General Rules FAQs
Who can use the e-scooters and e-bikes?
Riders must be 16 years of age or older and agree to follow all local traffic laws and operating rules. A licence or insurance is not required to operate an electric kick scooter or electric bike.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes. Helmets are required for all riders.
Can I carry a passenger?
No. Electric scooters are designed for one rider only. You may not carry passengers or tow people or devices.
Can I ride on the sidewalk?
No. Sidewalk riding is not permitted.
Where can I ride?
- On roads 50 km/h or less: Use a designated cycling lane if available, or ride as far right as practicable unless otherwise directed.
- You may only ride in a designated cycling lane on roads over 50 km/h
- Riders must obey all posted signs and traffic control devices.
- Riding is not permitted on sidewalks.
- Riding is not permitted on highways.
Where do I park?
Scooters and bikes must be parked responsibly in designated areas and in a way that keeps sidewalks clear and accessible.
Shared Service Operator FAQs
Who is operating the service?
Starting March 2, 2026, the service will be operated by Bird Canada, a shared micromobility provider of e-scooters and e-bikes for short, everyday trips around the city, including commuting, errands, connecting to transit, and exploring neighbourhoods.
Are e-scooters and e-bikes available year-round?
The program will operate annually from March to November, weather and safe riding conditions permitting. Deployment timing may shift slightly depending on road and weather conditions, and all devices will be removed from public rights-of-way by December 1 for secure winter storage in Kamloops. The City may re-evaluate the operating season in consultation with Bird Canada based on usage and other considerations.
What are the daily hours of operation?
Devices will be available for a minimum of 16 hours per day, with typical operating hours between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm. Reduced speeds may apply during late-night hours.
How do I rent an e-scooter or e-bike?
Download the Bird app to locate and unlock available devices. When you’re finished your ride, park in a designated parking area and end your trip in the app.
What safety features do Bird e-scooters have?
Bird’s fleet of electric scooters and e-bikes come equipped with the following:
- Maximum speed capability of 25 km/h
- Smart sidewalk protection
- IP68-rated battery with a durable electrical enclosure that protects against dust and water damage
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Real-time fault and skid detection
- Extended footboards
- A motor of 500 watts or less that stops propelling when the accelerator is released or brakes are applied
- A bell or horn
- Front and rear lights
- Weight of no more than 100 lbs (including batteries)
How does Bird promote safety?
Bird works closely with the City to promote safe riding and responsible parking through in-app education, clear operating rules, and local operations support. The devices are GPS-enabled and provide the operator with data to inform opportunities to optimize their safe and responsible use.
How does Bird fit with other transportation options?
Bird’s electric mobility devices are intended to complement other sustainable transportation modes like walking, cycling, and public transit—not replace them. It helps make short trips and first- and last-kilometre connections easier and more convenient.
Provincial Pilot Project FAQs
How is this a pilot project?
In April 2024, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit launched a four-year pilot project to permit the use of electric kick scooters in participating communities, allowing users to ride an electric kick scooter on public roads in participating communities, subject to the pilot project rules and any rules set by the municipality.
After extensive research and engagement, Council approved the City joining the provincial pilot project to increase active transportation choices in our community, which aligns with Council’s strategic goals on mobility and climate action.
By participating in this pilot, the City has the flexibility to permit both private (owned by an individual) and shared-use (operated by a service provider like Bird Canada) electric kick scooters in Kamloops. User feedback will be collected and reported back to the province as required.
Why is the City offering shared e-scooters and e-bikes?
The program supports the City’s transportation and climate goals by reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles, easing congestion, encouraging active transportation, and improving connections to transit and local businesses. The program also provides visitors of Kamloops with more ways to explore our community.
Is the program regulated?
Yes. The service operates under British Columbia’s Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project Regulation within the Motor Vehicle Act.
Why is the City supporting shared micromobility?
Shared e-scooters and e-bikes:
- Help reduce short car trips, congestion, and parking pressure
- Improve access to jobs, services, transit, and local destinations
- Support local businesses by making it easier to move between neighbourhoods
- Reduce emissions and support Kamloops’ broader climate and transportation goals
- Encourage outdoor activity and everyday movement
Where can I find information about purchasing my own electric scooter?
Find more details directly from the Ministry of Transportation and Transit here.
