Elche’s e-scooter ordinance gets the green light

Elche is poised to enact a new mobility code that will govern the operation of personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), such as electric scooters. Claudio Guilabert stated that, following these procedures, “The ordinance is expected to be definitively approved between June 25th and 26th, and will come into effect on January 1st, 2026. “

The ordinance’s key new elements include the requirement for all PMV drivers to wear helmets and carry liability insurance. Moreover, the minimum age for riding an electric scooter is 14 years old, and it prohibits riding with companions.

The new restrictions also limit the use of these vehicles on pavements and pedestrian areas, permitting them exclusively on the road or in bicycle lanes where available. As an exemption, people with limited mobility may operate these vehicles in pedestrian areas provided they are appropriate for their needs.

Bicycles will be permitted in pedestrian zones, parks, and green spaces, provided there are no crowds and speeds do not exceed 10 km/h. Cyclists over the age of 14 will not be required to wear helmets. Cyclists and scooter riders will not be permitted to wear headphones or ride while under the influence of drink or drugs.

The rule also governs the use of non-electric scooters, which are prohibited on roadways but permitted in bike lanes, parks, green spaces and sidewalks. Also, bikes with more than two wheels can only be used on public roads.

To raise awareness of these measures, the City Council is collaborating with the Department of Education to hold information sessions in the municipality’s schools.