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.
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.
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.
Richmond, VA
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See how Richmond's shared e-scooter rules rules stack up against other locations.
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