Newark, OH Mobility & Curb Rules: Shared E-Scooter Rules (2026)

Section 402.193 defines a low-speed micromobility device as a device weighing less than 100 pounds that has handlebars, is propelled by an electric motor or human power, and has an attainable speed on a paved level surface of not more than 20 miles per hour when propelled by the electric motor. Section 416.14(a)(1) lets these devices operate on public streets, highways, sidewalks, shared-use paths, and portions of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.

Operators have fixed duties under division (b): yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians at all times, give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian, and at night carry a front lamp emitting white light visible from not less than 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 100 feet to 600 feet in a motor vehicle's lower beams. Division (c) bars anyone under 16 from renting a device and bars anyone from knowingly renting to, or on behalf of, a person under 16. Division (d) sets the 20 miles per hour ceiling.

The program-level authority is in division (f). Notwithstanding division (a)(1), the municipality can regulate or prohibit operation of these devices on public streets, highways, sidewalks, shared-use paths and bicycle-only roadway portions under its jurisdiction. It can fold adapted devices for people with physical limitations into a shared bicycle, shared electric bicycle or similar vehicle sharing program, and it can require the owner or operator of a rental service or sharing program to maintain commercial general liability insurance with limits of up to $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 per aggregate.

Section 416.14 itself does not draw a no-ride zone map or set a permit fee; zone limits would come from city action under division (f)(1).