Council preparing to sponsor resolution on Regulation of Personal Micromobility Devices at upcoming Alberta Municipalities convention

Like many municipalities, the City of Spruce Grove has seen an increase in the use of Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) such as e-scooters, electronic skateboards, hoverboards, and e-bikes, and heard related concerns and complaints from residents related to their use on trails and roads.

Additionally, there are challenges related to enforcement due to a lack of clarity on PMDs in the Province’s Traffic Safety Act. This has made it difficult for municipalities to effectively regulate and enforce the use of PMDs, and it raises safety and enforcement challenges with respect to speed, helmet use, age restrictions, parking, and defining where PMDs are permitted to operate.

To help address this concern, Spruce Grove City Council is taking the lead on sponsoring a resolution on the regulation of PMDs which will be considered by the membership at the Alberta Municipalities convention in Edmonton in September.

The proposed resolution requests that Alberta Municipalities advocate to create clear, consistent rules across Alberta for using devices like e-scooters and e-bikes, while still allowing municipalities to enforce their own bylaws. A shared set of provincial guidelines, developed with municipalities and based on best practices, would help ensure these devices are used safely and in a way that meets local community needs.

“We are looking forward to bringing this resolution forward and asking for the support of other member municipalities on this important issue,” said Mayor Jeff Acker. “We have heard concerns from many in our community related to public safety, and the need for fair and consistent rules and regulations to support proactive enforcement of PMDs. We are hopeful this resolution will pass to ensure this important issue continues to be raised with the Province.”