Council approves new Roads and Transportation Bylaw to enhance community safety

E-scooter use prohibited in public spaces. The new bylaw clarifies rules and helps address public safety concerns

Council approved a new Roads and Transportation Bylaw (No. 25/020) at last night’s meeting. The new bylaw is aligned with Provincial legislation and will enhance community safety by providing clarity on traffic laws, and improving compliance, education, and enforcement tools.

The previous Roads and Transportation Bylaw had been in effect since 2002 with only minor amendments and no longer met community needs. The bylaw regulates the safe use of roads and public spaces in the region by vehicles and pedestrians, including parking, crosswalks, sidewalks, driveways, and more.

E-scooter use not allowed in public spaces

While e-scooter use was previously prohibited in public spaces in Wood Buffalo, there were not clear regulations for e-scooters, creating challenges with education and enforcement. The new Bylaw clarifies these laws to improve understanding and to help address growing public safety concerns about e-scooters.  

E-scooter use is not allowed in any public space in the region, including sidewalks, paths, trails, and roads. Bylaw Services will take an education-first approach for e-scooters before enforcement action, which could include fines up to $500.   

In Wood Buffalo, e-scooter use is only allowed on private property. Self-propelled (human powered) scooters are allowed on sidewalks, paths and trails as long as the rider is wearing a proper helmet and following all traffic laws.

Traffic safety

The Roads and Transportation Bylaw includes laws for the safe use of roadways and public spaces in the region. Everyone, whether walking, riding a bicycle, or driving a vehicle, plays a critical role in traffic and pedestrian safety.

• When using a crosswalk, always make eye contact with the driver to ensure they see you. Don’t assume that they’ll give you the right-of-way.
• When riding a bicycle, you need a properly secured helmet and must yield the right-of-way to all other sidewalk users.
• Remember that playground zones are in effect from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm. The speed limit is 30 km/h in these areas.

More information on traffic and pedestrian safety, including e-scooters and self-propelled vehicles, can be found in the RMWB’s Good Neighbour Guide.

Read the Roads and Transportation Bylaw 25/020.

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