Madison regulates shared electric scooters and dockless bikes through a city permit program operated by Madison Transportation, requiring rider speed limits, parking corrals near BRT stops, and compliance with Wisconsin's e-scooter statute.
Wisconsin's 2019 Act 11 authorizes electric scooters on most streets and bike lanes, leaving local rules to municipalities. Madison's shared-mobility permit caps the number of scooters per operator, requires geofenced low-speed zones around UW-Madison and State Street, and mandates parking in corrals or designated furnishing zones to keep sidewalks clear under ADA rules. Operators must share trip data with the city and pay per-scooter fees. Riding on sidewalks downtown is prohibited, and helmets are recommended for adults and required under state law for some younger riders. The Pedestrian, Bicycle and Motor Vehicle Commission reviews program performance.
Riding violations carry $98-$200 fines per state statute; operator violations of the city permit can lead to fleet-size reductions, suspension, or revocation, plus impoundment fees for improperly parked scooters.
See how Madison's shared e-scooter rules rules stack up against other locations.
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