E-scooters: The offence parents may not realise they are committing

Ahead of the school summer holidays, Essex Police and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Roger Hirst are warning riders, parents, grandparents and guardians about the law surrounding privately-owned e-scooters and the increasing risks in using them.

Essex is continuing to see privately-owned e-scooters used illegally on roads, pavements and other public places, with increasing links to anti-social behaviour, crime and serious collisions.

To-date in 2026, Essex Police have has seized more than 180 e-scooters. In 2025, officers seized 370. These seizures form part of ongoing enforcement activity aimed at keeping Essex's roads and communities safe.

While e-scooters have become increasingly popular, many people remain unaware that privately-owned e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on public roads, pavements, cycle paths or in other public spaces.

They can only be used on private land with the permission of the landowner.

Privately-owned e-scooters are treated in law as motor vehicles. To be used legally on public roads they  require insurance, the rider to have a valid driving licence and other legal requirements which privately-owned e-scooters currently cannot meet.

These issues relate only to privately-owned e-scooters and does not apply to e scooters operating as part of approved rental trial schemes, which are permitted in designated areas and subject to specific legal requirements.

Roger Hirst, said: “As we head into the summer holidays, I am urging people not to ride an e-scooter on the roads or pavements. It is simply dangerous to do so.

"Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to ride on public roads, pavements, cycle paths, parks and other public places.

"Under current law, an e-scooter is classed as a motor vehicle and requires a driving licence and insurance. Pause for a moment and put that into context: you wouldn’t let your child drive your car - don't let your child ride an e-scooter in traffic.

“Whilst it might be seen as a fun and convenient way to get around, riding an e-scooter does have implications for road safety that must be taken more seriously. Recent tragic incidents here in Essex, where an e-scooter has been involved, have highlighted the life-changing impact that can be caused. No one wants their summer holiday to end with a knock on the door from the police.

“I support the action being taken by Essex Police – an e-scooter should be seized if it is being used illegally. This is about preventing further serious incidents. Think carefully about the consequences before purchasing an e-scooter this summer.”

What you need to know

• Privately-owned e-scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements or cycle paths.
• They can only be used on private land with the landowner's permission.
• Riders may commit a range of road traffic offences.
• E-scooters being used illegally will be seized.
• Parents, grandparents or guardians could also commit offences if they cause or permit illegal use.

For more on e-scooters visit E-scooters: The offence parents may not realise they could be committing | Essex Police