Chesapeake, VA Mobility & Curb Rules: Shared E-Scooter Rules (2026)

Sec. 74-356 makes it unlawful to offer shareable mobility devices for hire within Chesapeake, defined as a ride for hire that originates in the city, without first securing a license from the licensing official designated by the city manager. Licensing runs through Sec. 74-357: an applicant submits materials and pays a review fee set by the city manager, then city council considers the franchise proposal at a public meeting and may approve, deny, or alter it, or direct the city manager to solicit competing proposals or run an administrative pilot instead.

Once council approves a franchise agreement, the licensing official issues the license, which can carry an annual renewal fee and revenue-sharing provision and remains subject to the franchise terms. Franchise agreements are where the real operating rules live: caps on device numbers, geographic service areas, sidewalk operation limits, speed limits, insurance and indemnification requirements, and data-sharing obligations. Riders face their own limits: under Sec. 74-345(d), a shareable mobility device may be ridden on a sidewalk only where a license specifically authorizes sidewalk use at designated locations, and the rider must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing.

Licenses are not guaranteed to last: under Sec. 74-358 the licensing official may suspend or revoke a license for the licensee's failure to abide by its franchise agreement or any federal, state, or local law, or for repeat rider violations after notice to the licensee, and that call is within the licensing official's sole discretion.