Charlotte, NC Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)

Section 14-1 defines an electric assisted bicycle as a two- or three-wheeled bicycle with pedals and a motor no larger than 750 watts that tops out at 20 mph on motor power alone, and an electric standup scooter as a stand-on device under 50 pounds powered to no more than 15 mph. Both classes count as vehicles under the chapter's definitions, and their riders answer to the same traffic rules as a driver where those rules can apply. Section 14-130 lets non-motorized bicycles, e-assist bicycles capped at 15 mph, and standup scooters use sidewalks generally, but section 14-251 withdraws that privilege inside the Uptown loop bounded by Church, Stonewall, College and 7th streets, and lets the transportation director extend the ban to other high-pedestrian sidewalks.

Section 14-253 requires a working brake system on every e-bike and scooter operated on a street, alley or sidewalk, and section 14-255 limits a standup scooter to a single rider. Riders under 16 must wear a helmet meeting Consumer Product Safety Commission, ANSI or Snell standards under section 14-10. A bicycle, e-bike or scooter operated or parked in violation of the chapter can be impounded by the transportation director or a police officer under section 14-256, and it will be disposed of if the owner does not claim it and pay the civil penalty within 90 days.