Tacoma authorizes shared e-scooter operators through a permitted pilot program with speed caps of 15 mph, mandatory parking corrals, and prohibitions on sidewalk riding in the downtown core.
Tacoma launched its Shared Mobility Pilot in 2019 and has periodically renewed it. Operators must hold a Right-of-Way Use Permit, share trip data with the city, and provide a low-income access plan. Devices are speed-limited to 15 mph and geofenced to slow further in pedestrian zones. Parking is allowed in marked corrals or against the curb without blocking pedestrian travel. Sidewalk riding is banned in the downtown business district under TMC 11.05.220, mirroring bicycle rules. State law RCW 46.61.710 treats e-scooters similarly to bikes outside cities, with municipal latitude to add rules.
Improper parking blocking sidewalks or sidewalk riding downtown can trigger device impound fees and rider citations under TMC 11.05.
See how Tacoma's shared e-scooter rules rules stack up against other locations.
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