E-Scooters aren’t allowed in public spaces; enforcement is increasing across Wood Buffalo.

(Fort McMurray, AB – June 5, 2026) – As more people head outside to enjoy the warmer weather, the Municipality is reminding residents that safety in public spaces is a shared responsibility. Whether walking, cycling, or driving, everyone has a role to play in keeping roads, sidewalks and trails safe by following provincial laws and municipal bylaws.  

The Roads and Transportation Bylaw uses the same definition of a miniature vehicle as in the Traffic Safety Act. Miniature vehicles include electric scooters (e-scooters), pocket bikes, golf carts, motorized skateboards, go-carts, and personal transporters. 

Know the rules before you ride 

This spring, the RCMP and Bylaw Services have seen increased e-scooter use on roads, sidewalks, paths, and other public spaces throughout the community. This can and has caused serious collisions and significant safety risks for riders, pedestrians and drivers.     

The Municipal Roads and Transportation bylaw does not allow the use of e-scooters in public spaces in the region. RCMP and Bylaw Officers prefer to begin with an education-first enforcement approach when they see illegal e-scooter use but are beginning to issue tickets and/or impounding e-scooters in response to increased illegal and unsafe use. The ticket for operating an e-scooter in a public space is $500.  

Public spaces include sidewalks, trails, parks, and streets, and are shared by everyone. Increased education and enforcement on e-scooter bylaws are necessary to help keep these spaces safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all users.  

Residents, and especially parents of minors who have e-scooters, should familiarize themselves with municipal bylaws and traffic regulations before operating any vehicle or equipment in public spaces. E-scooters can continue to be used on private property in the region.  

Learn more about provincial regulations. 

Pedestrian and crosswalk safety reminders 

Drivers and pedestrians are reminded to be alert and cautious when near a crosswalk, sidewalk or road.  

Pedestrians: 

• Only use designated crosswalks 

• Obey traffic signals 

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, like a cell phone 

Cyclists:  

• Dismount and walk bikes through crosswalks  

• Give the right-of-way to pedestrians and all other sidewalk users  

• Wear a properly fitting helmet  

• Ride to the right of the sidewalk, except when safely passing 

• If cycling on the road, keep to the far-right side and obey all stop signs and traffic lights. 

Drivers:  

• Slow down and use caution when approaching crosswalks.  

• Always yield to pedestrians and wait for them to fully cross before proceeding.  

• School Zones are in effect on all school days. (30 km/h from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)  

• Watch out and slow down in Playground Zones, which are in effect every day, all year long. (30 km/h from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.)  

• Never drive distracted and be alert of your surroundings at all times.     

Roads and Transportation Bylaw  

The Roads and Transportation Bylaw was approved by Council in July 2025 and provides clarity on fines and penalties relating to e-scooters. Prior to the Roads and Transportation Bylaw being passed, e-scooters were already prohibited according to the Alberta Traffic Safety Act. 

Learn more at rmwb.ca/trafficsafety. 

-30- 

Media inquiries:  

 media@rmwb.ca