Boston, MA Mobility & Curb Rules: Shared E-Scooter Rules (2026)

Chapter XVII, § 17-21, added by Ord. 2019 c. 3, licenses 'small vehicle sharing businesses', fleets of ten or more rentable small vehicles, such as shared scooters, placed at self-service locations including the public right-of-way. 2(A) no person or entity may operate one without a license issued by the Commissioner of the Boston Transportation Department, based on a completed application and a determination that the applicant meets standards set by regulation. 3 separately bars storing or renting small vehicles from public property, public ways, sidewalks, parks, plazas, bike paths, unless specifically authorized under the chapter.

5(C) sets the licensing minimums operators must meet: vehicles cannot obstruct crosswalks, curb ramps, fire hydrants or building entrances; operators must submit a safety plan approved by the Boston Transportation Department and a proposed service area subject to the department's revision; vehicles must be removable ahead of a snow emergency or major event and remotely lockable when unsafe; and the maximum speed of any small vehicle made available is capped at 15 mph. Application fees run $500, with an annual fee the Commissioner sets by regulation, and licenses cannot be sold or transferred for value except with a qualifying business sale. A Small Vehicle Sharing Business Advisory Committee, including a Disabilities Commission representative, advises the Commissioner and reports quarterly to the City Council.