Charlotte, NC Mobility & Curb Rules: Shared E-Scooter Rules (2026)

Article XV of Chapter 19, the Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Places code, governs shared-use mobility systems: bicycles, electric assisted bicycles, electric standup scooters and similar devices offered for short-term dockless rental in the public right-of-way (Sec. 19-362). The article applies only to commercial shared fleets; it exempts privately owned personal micromobility devices not run as a rental business, systems that use fixed docking stations or storefronts, and mobility devices used by individuals with an ADA-recognized disability (Sec. 19-361). Sec. 19-363(a) makes it unlawful to operate a shared-use mobility system in any public right-of-way without a permit from the director.

Required permit terms include the permit's term length, the city's right to order removal or relocation of any device, indemnification of the city for claims arising from right-of-way use, minimum insurance coverage, and the city's retained police power over the fleet. Sec. 19-364 puts the Charlotte Department of Transportation director in charge of administering the program: issuing permits, writing and revising permit guidelines, setting the minimum and maximum number of vehicles a permit allows, and setting permit and regulatory fees under Sec. 2-1. The director can revoke a permit for good cause, including failure to pay a fee or civil penalty within 30 days of notice, violating any statute or ordinance governing the devices, or violating a permit condition.

The director, a designee, or any authorized city employee may impound any vehicle operated in violation of the article and charge a civil penalty, then dispose of an impounded vehicle if the penalties go unpaid for 90 days. Sec. 00 late-fee penalty per vehicle if the original penalty is not paid or appealed within 30 days. Penalties attach to the permittee, permit holder, or business that owns the vehicles rather than individual riders. S. 160A-175. Appeals of a civil penalty follow the general Sec. 2-25 appeal procedure (Sec. 19-366).