DDOT licenses shared dockless scooter operators under the Shared Fleet Devices Permit, capping each operator's fleet, requiring lock-to technology, and enforcing sidewalk riding bans citywide under Title 18 DCMR.
Since 2019 DDOT has run an annual permit program limiting shared dockless scooter operators (currently Lime, Spin, and Bird) to roughly 2,500 vehicles each. Permit conditions include lock-to docking on bike racks or corrals, low-income discount programs, equity zone deployment in Wards 5/7/8, real-time data sharing via Mobility Data Specification (MDS), and helmet promotion. Sidewalk riding is prohibited downtown under 18 DCMR 1201; riders must use bike lanes or streets. Improperly parked scooters are tagged and removed within two hours of complaint to 311.
Operators face fleet reductions or permit revocation for repeat violations. Riders sidewalk-riding downtown can be cited $25; obstruction of accessible paths invites $100 fines.
Washington, DC
DDOT operates 100+ miles of bike lanes including 30+ miles of protected lanes under Vision Zero (Mayor's Order 2015-291), targeting zero traffic fatalities b...
Washington, DC
DDOT manages curb space through metered parking, loading zones, parklets, and Pick-Up/Drop-Off (PUDO) zones for ride-hail under the Curbside Management Study...
See how Washington's shared e-scooter rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.