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Use of privately owned scooters and licenced VOI scooters

Dear Resident

We’d like to remind residents about the legal status of privately owned e-scooters under current UK law.

 Privately Owned E-Scooters and the Law Privately owned e-scooters are classified as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means they must meet the same legal requirements as other motor vehicles, including: A valid driving license, Insurance and registration. Most privately owned e-scooters do not meet these requirements and are therefore illegal to use on public roads, pavements, and cycle lanes. 

Consequences of Illegal Use Riding a private e-scooter in public can result in: 

  • Fines
  • Penalty points on your driving license 
  • The e-scooter being seized by police 
  •  

    Privately owned e-scooters cannot currently be insured for public use, which is one of the main reasons they are not legal on roads or public pathways.

    Private e-scooters can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.

     

    Only government-approved rental e-scooters are currently allowed in specific trial areas. These scooters meet legal requirements and provide a safe, lawful alternative. In Northampton, VOI is the approved rental provider. Users must follow all rules, including single riders only, riding and parking responsibly. 

    To report the illegal or dangerous use of  VOI e-scooters, please use the link below , you will need the time, location and if possible the 4 digit code from the scooter:

    Voi Scooters - Report a Voi

    To report the use of private e- scooter usage contact the police via 101 or alternatively you can report online here. In an emergency or if there is immediate danger, always call 999. We urge all residents to follow the law and prioritise safety when considering the use of e-scooters. Stay safe,

    You can also pass on information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    Security tips and crime prevention advice can be found on the Northamptonshire Police website and on the Neighbourhood Watch website.  

    If you would like to contact your local policing team, search in the Your Area section of our website. 

     


    Reply to this message

    Message Sent By
    Laura Harmer
    (Northamptonshire Police, PCSO, NN8 Northampton Kingsthorpe Headlands Boothville)
    Neighbourhood Alert