With more electric scooters zipping through local neighborhoods, the Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) is reminding community members that Sec. 30-90 of the Town’s Code of Ordinances prohibits the operation of motorized scooters “on sidewalks, greenways, parks, town streets, and all other public areas.”
The ordinance defines a “motorized scooter” as “any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, has a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding, and is powered by an electric motor or other power source. The device may also have a seat that does not interfere with the ability of the rider to stand and ride.”
The WFPD reminder aims to improve safety for pedestrians and recreational users, following concerns raised by community members and visitors about fast-moving electric scooters along neighborhood streets, greenways, and shared pathways.
“Our number one concern is the health and safety of our community,” said Police Chief Julius Jefferson. “I hope our young people, and their parents and guardians, will be mindful of the potential safety risks and not operate electric scooters on our streets, sidewalks, and greenways. We need everyone’s cooperation to prevent accidents that could cause serious harm to the riders and others.”
Parents are advised to ensure their children follow these rules, as the law holds parents accountable if juveniles (under the age of 18) operate scooters in violation of the Town ordinance and state law. Per Town ordinance, anyone observed by law enforcement to be operating a motorized scooter on a sidewalk, greenway, park, town street, or other public area is subject to a fine.
On a related note, NCGS 20-171.9 requires anyone who is under the age of 16 and operating a bicycle on a public roadway, public bicycle path, or other public right‑of‑way to wear a helmet or face a fine.
For more information, call the Wake Forest Police Department at 919-554-6150.