Motorized Scooter Laws
The state legislature has amended state statutes regulating motorized scooters and motorized bicycles.
The definition of "motorized bicycle" was clarified as "a bicycle propelled by an electric or a liquid fuel". A motorized foot scooter is now defined as "a device with handlebars designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator, and powered by an internal combustion engine or electric motor that his capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion, and that has either (1) or more than two ten-inch or smaller diameter wheels or (2) an engine or motor that is capable of a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour."
Minnesota Statutes regulating the operation of motorized foot scooters:
- Person operating motorized foot scootes have all the rights of bicycle operators.
- Operators are prohibited from operating motorized foot scooters on sidewalks.
- More than one rider on motorized scooter is prohibited.
- Persons under the age of 12 are prohibited from operating motorized foot scooters.
- Person under the age of 18 years must wear helmets while operating motorized foot scooters.
- Motorized foot scooters must be equipped with proper lighting equipment.
- Persons operating motorized scooters on roadways must ride as close as possible to the right-hand curb.
- A person may operate a motorized foot scooter on a bicycle path provided operation is not prohibited by the governing body having jurisdiction over the path.
- Motorized foot scooter as defined in the statute are exempt from tax and registration fees.