It is legal to buy or sell an e-scooter in the UK. 

But it is illegal to ride a privately-owned e-scooter on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes or parks. 

You can ride an e-scooter on private land, if you have the landowner’s permission. 

Special case: Rental e-scooter schemes (where the scooter is provided as part of an approved scheme/trial) can be ridden on roads/cycle lanes in designated trial areas only. 

If you ride a privately-owned e-scooter in public you face risks of fines, penalty points, seizure and insurance issues (because they are legally classed as motor vehicles) under the Road Traffic Act 1988. 

Example penalties: up to a £300 fine + 6 penalty points for use without insurance/licence. 

E-Bikes (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles – EAPCs)

E-bikes which meet the rules for EAPCs are legal to ride on UK roads in the same way as regular pedal bikes. 

Must have pedals which can propel the cycle. 

The motor should have a maximum continuous rated power output ≤ 250 Watts. 

The motor must cut out once the bike reaches 15.5 mph (approx. 25 km/h). 

If the e-bike does not meet those criteria, it is treated as a motor vehicle (so must be taxed, registered, insured, and you need an appropriate driving licence). 

Check what you’re buying:

For an e-scooter: remember that owning it is legal, but riding it on public roads is not unless it’s part of an approved rental trial.

For an e-bike: ensure it meets the EAPC rules (pedals, ≤ 250 W, motor cut-off at 15.5 mph).

Use existing lawfully:

If you purchase an e-scooter, plan to use it only on private land unless you are using a rental scheme in a trial area.

If you purchase an e-bike, ensure you follow regular cycling rules and that the bike is in good working order.

Focus on safety & storage:

Only buy from trusted retailers; check reviews.

Use the correct charger; don’t leave batteries charging unattended, and store in a well-ventilated, safe place away from combustibles.

Regularly inspect for damage, especially to batteries, wiring, chargers.

Be aware of enforcement risks:

Riding a non-compliant device in public may lead to fines, insurance being invalid, confiscation.

Just because you see others riding doesn’t mean it’s lawful — it may simply avoid enforcement, but the legal risk remains.

Unlawful use of e-scooters (on roads, pavements) can endanger pedestrians and other road/cycle users, and may increase the chances of collisions or insurance gaps.

Unsafe or poorly manufactured batteries/components pose fire risk in homes, flats, communal garages. The government has reported increasing incidents. 

Clear understanding of the rules helps us avoid confusion, protects those new to e-mobility (younger riders), and promotes responsible use of e-bikes which are lawful when compliant.

E-bikes: Generally lawful if they meet the correct criteria.

E-scooters: You can buy them, but you cannot legally ride them in public unless they are part of an approved rental scheme/trial.

Always check product safety, charging/storage practices, and ensure your equipment is from reputable sources.

What you can do now:

Spread the word: consider sharing this alert with neighbours, local schools, youth groups.

If you or someone you know is considering buying an e-scooter or e-bike: pause, check the specs, check the law, and ensure safe usage.

Encourage safe charging / battery storage practices in homes and communal living environments.