Wisconsin's New Scooter Law: 5 Things To Know

MILWAUKEE, WI — Citing a desire to open up transportation options, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers signed a bill Monday that legally allows operators of electric scooters to drive down roads and sidewalks.

Under bill, which was approved by Republican and Democratic legislators, all scooters must weigh less than 100 pounds, operate at 20 miles per hour or less, and be subject to local laws where it makes sense to disallow the battery-powered vehicles.

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Read the Wisconsin Scooter Bill

"We should be setting the floor, not the ceiling, for local governments in Wisconsin," Evers said in a statement after signing the legislation into law. "Electric scooters improve access to low-cost transportation options and can serve as a first or last-mile solution to residents and visitors in communities throughout our state. By providing clarity to a rapidly-growing industry, this bill empowers local governments to make the decisions that best fit their area."

1. Under the bill, an electric scooter is defined as “a device weighing less than 100 pounds that has handlebars and an electric motor, is powered solely by the electric motor and human power, and has a maximum speed of not more than 20 miles per hour on a paved level surface when powered solely by the electric motor.” The bill provides that “electric scooter” does not include an electric personal assistive mobility device (think Segway), motorcycle, motor bicycle, or moped.

2. Electric scooters are exempt from vehicle registration by the Department of Transportation.

3. Operators of electric scooters must observe many of the rules of the road. Operators who violate the applicable rules of the road are subject to the same penalties as those that apply to violations committed while operating a Segway.

4. Electric scooters may be operated on most roadways, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and bicycle ways. However, a local highway authority may by ordinance regulate the rental and operation of electric scooters.

5. Electric scooters must satisfy the same equipment requirements as Segways, including lighting and brake requirements.