West Shore RCMP says that since e-bikes and e-scooters have become more common on the streets of Langford and Colwood, they have received a growing number of complaints.
The complaints began after the Ministry of Transportation and Transit implemented the Electric Kick Scooter (EKS) pilot project in April 2024, and became worse with the introduction of EVO/Evolve’s e-bike and e-scooter share in the City of Langford in June 2025.
Police say that users of these methods of transportation need to be aware of the fact that they must adhere to laws regulated by the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA), as well as different local bylaws.
They added that fines will be issued to those not adhering to MVA rules, and those who are in violation may be liable in case of collisions or other incidents.
Types of vehicles of concern:
- Motor Assisted Cycle (MAC):
- Motor must be electric, a helmet is required, must have pedals, two or three wheels, a licence plate, driver’s licence and insurance are not required
- Limited Speed Motorcycle (LSM):
- Can be powered by a gas engine up to 50cc or an electric motor up to 1.5 kilowatts, with no clutch or shifting required, with a max speed of 70 km/h
- Must have a Class 6, 5, or Class 7 N (not an L) licence, a motorcycle helmet, headlights, brake lights, turn signals, a licence plate, registration and insurance
- Electric Kick Scooter (EKS):
- Must have up to four wheels with a platform for standing, a steering handlebar, an electric motor and must have a power output rating that does not exceed 500 watts
- Cannot have a motor that allows a speed greater than 24 km/hr on level ground.
- Must have a bell or horn, a white or amber light on the front of the EKS when operated between sunset and sunrise
- Under the current EKS pilot project, EKS are permitted in Langford, Colwood and View Royal for the West Shore, but not in Metchosin and the Highlands
“Pedestrians, cyclists and vehicle operators all have a responsibility to share the road. It’s important to know the rules and requirements surrounding each modes of transportation to avoid incidents and misunderstandings when interacting with other road users,” said Cst. Gabriel Gravel, Media Relations Officer for the West Shore RCMP.
“We also want to remind MAC, LSM and EKS users that these different vehicles are all considered conveyances (motor vehicles) and therefore, operators are subject to the same provincial and criminal laws when it comes to impaired driving. It is not a safe nor legal ride when impaired by drugs or alcohol.”
