Brampton’s E-Scooter Pilot Program Returns for Third Year with Up to 900 Scooters

Brampton’s Shared E-scooter Pilot Program is back for its third year, continuing to offer residents and visitors a sustainable, convenient transportation option. The city announced that up to 900 e-scooters will be available this spring and summer, providing even more opportunities to get around town.

“The City of Brampton is excited to kick off year three of its successful Shared E-scooter Pilot Program,” the city stated in a media release. “The program has been instrumental in transforming mobility across Brampton while supporting the city’s climate and transportation goals.”

Launched in 2023, the pilot program has been in partnership with three scooter rental companies: Neuron, Bird Canada, and SCOOTY. In its first two years, the program recorded an impressive 348,000 trips, covering 2,905,711 kilometers, and significantly reducing carbon emissions—up to 98 tons—by replacing car and bus trips with e-scooter rides.

The program began with a cap of 750 scooters in its first year, which was increased to 900 scooters in 2024, and now that number will be maintained for the 2025 season. While the city has not provided a specific start date, Neuron has already launched its e-scooters for the 2025 season. In previous years, deployment didn’t begin until May 1.

Despite its success, the program has faced challenges, including concerns raised by the council about road safety and the improper parking of scooters. Some users have left scooters on sidewalks or other public areas, which has impacted accessibility and safety.

In response, Brampton has worked closely with the three scooter companies to refine a hybrid parking model, combining designated parking areas with free-floating zones. The city also continues to offer online road safety education through the rental apps, aiming to improve rider awareness and compliance.

The hybrid parking system encourages users to park scooters in approved spots, especially in high-traffic areas. The rental apps will notify riders to return scooters to designated zones before ending their trips.

Rules for E-Scooter Use in Brampton:

To ensure safety, Brampton has established specific rules for e-scooter rentals, as outlined by Neuron:

• Riders must be 16 years or older. Those under 18 require parental or guardian consent.

• Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 and recommended for all users.

• E-scooters can only be ridden on bike lanes, multi-use trails, and roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or lower.

• Riding on sidewalks is prohibited.

• Only one rider per scooter is allowed, with no tandem riding or carrying children.

• Riders must maintain a safe distance from pedestrians and mobility devices.

• It is illegal to ride while under the influence of alcohol or other substances.

• Riders must follow local parking guidelines and use the provided lock to secure the scooter to a pole or frame after use.

• Earphones should be removed while riding to stay aware of the surroundings.

As Brampton continues to expand its e-scooter program, city officials are hopeful that the pilot will not only provide a greener way to travel but also contribute to improving the city’s transportation infrastructure.