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

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Minimum age
16 years old
Speed limit
15 mph
Pilot ordinance
2019-026
Sidewalk ban zone
Central business district

Summary

Richmond regulates shared mobility devices through a city pilot ordinance and operator agreements with companies like Bird and Lime, requiring helmets for riders under 14, sidewalk-riding restrictions downtown, and 15 mph maximum speeds.

All electric personal assistive mobility devices, electrically powered toy vehicles, and electric power-assisted bicycles shall be equipped with spill-proof, sealed, or gelled electrolyte batteries. No person shall at any time or at any location operate (i) an electric personal assistive mobility device at a speed faster than 25 miles per hour or (ii) a motorized skateboard or scooter at a speed faster than 20 miles per hour. No person shall operate a skateboard or scooter that would otherwise meet the definition of a motorized skateboard or scooter but is capable of speeds greater than 20 miles per hour at a speed greater than 20 miles per hour. No person less than 14 years old shall drive any electric personal assistive mobility device, motorized skateboard or scooter, or class three electric power-assisted bicycle unless under the immediate supervision of a person who is at least 18 years old. An electric personal assistive mobility device may be operated on any highway with a maximum speed limit of 25 miles per hour or less.

Source: Va. Code §46.2-908.1View official code

Full Breakdown

Richmond launched its dockless mobility pilot in 2019 under City Council Ord. 2019-026, granting the Department of Public Works authority to permit shared scooter and bikeshare operators. Riders must be at least 16 years old, operate one-per-vehicle, and yield to pedestrians on shared-use paths. Sidewalk riding is prohibited in the central business district roughly bounded by Belvidere, Marshall, 17th, and Cary streets. Devices must be parked upright in designated corrals or within the furnishing zone of sidewalks without blocking ADA accessibility. Va. Code §46.2-908.1 sets statewide baselines for electric power-assisted vehicles and helmet rules.

Violations & Fines

Sidewalk riding in restricted areas, underage operation, or improper parking can result in $25-$100 fines per occurrence; operators face permit suspension for repeated rider violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to ride?
No driver's license is required for low-speed e-scooters under Virginia law, but riders must be at least 16. Helmets are required for riders under 14.
Can I ride on the Capital Trail?
Yes, the Virginia Capital Trail allows e-scooters and e-bikes operating below the posted 15 mph limit. Yield to pedestrians and announce when passing slower users.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Richmond

All Richmond rules

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