The government has decided that electric scooters will no longer be allowed to park on footpaths and cycle paths, other than at bicycle racks or other parking spaces. There will also be a ban on driving electric scooters on footpaths. The new rules will come into effect on 1 September 2022.

As of September 1, parking for electric scooters on footpaths and cycle paths is prohibited and they must instead be parked in a special parking space or in a bicycle rack. The decision means that the municipality and the police will have greater opportunity to remove incorrectly parked electric scooters.

The main rule is that the vehicles should be moved to a special parking area, but shorter movements of the bicycles can also be applied. The electric scooter companies will pay the cost of the move. 

– We view this legislative change positively, which will make it easier for us as a municipality to control parking problems related to electric scooters, says Henrik Lander (C).

Driving ban on footpaths

On September 1st, another new law will come into force, banning the use of electric scooters on footpaths. Electric scooters driving too fast on footpaths is a major problem throughout the country, including in Karlstad. The new law is intended to improve accessibility and safety for everyone who walks on footpaths. The same rules will therefore apply to electric scooters as to bicycles, electric bicycles and other non-self-balancing electric bicycles without pedals and cranks. Anyone who violates the new law risks a fine.

According to the press release