With summer bringing more people to Port Coquitlam's trails, parks and pathways, the City is reminding residents that not all e-mobility devices are permitted, and that safe, respectful riding is expected from everyone who shares these spaces. Trails and pathways are shared by walkers, runners, dog owners and children as well as riders — everyone is asked to stay alert and considerate of one another.
Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are permitted in Port Coquitlam and are a healthy, sustainable way to get around. Riders must wear a helmet and be at least 16 years old. Limited-speed motorcycles — mopeds and similar small-engine scooters — are also permitted, provided they are properly licensed, registered and insured, the same as any other motor vehicle. On shared pathways such as the Traboulay PoCo Trail, please also keep to a safe speed, use a bell when passing, and yield to pedestrians.
Electric kick scooters (e-scooters) are not currently permitted on roads, sidewalks or pathways in Port Coquitlam. While some neighbouring municipalities, including Coquitlam, participate in the Province of B.C.'s Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project, Port Coquitlam is not a participating community. Riders should be aware that the rules change when crossing municipal boundaries.
The City also reminds residents that e-dirt bikes and mini-motorcycles are not permitted on any City street, sidewalk, trail or park, regardless of the rider's age and cannot be insured for use in public spaces.
The City works closely with Coquitlam RCMP, who take enforcement action where devices are operated unsafely or unlawfully. Residents are encouraged to report unsafe riding to the Coquitlam RCMP non-emergency line at 604-945-1550. Questions or feedback about the Province's e-scooter pilot project can be directed to the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Transit through its Personal Mobility Device pilot page or to MLA Mike Farnworth's constituency office.
Residents are also reminded that anyone operating an e-mobility device must follow B.C.'s Motor Vehicle Act and applicable regulations. This includes obeying traffic signs and signals, yielding to pedestrians, riding only where the device is permitted, and ensuring the device meets all legal requirements for use on public roads and shared pathways.
For e-bike riders, a few habits make a big difference:
Share the trail — slow down and use your bell well before passing walkers, runners, dogs and children, and be ready for sudden, unpredictable movement, especially from kids and pets
Ride at a speed that suits the pathway, and yield to pedestrians at all times
Stay visible with lights when riding at dawn or dusk, and charge batteries with the manufacturer's certified charger, away from exits and never unattended overnight
Parents are encouraged to confirm that any device they purchase for a family member meets the Province's motor-assisted cycle requirements, and that the rider meets the minimum age of 16, before it is ridden
To learn more about which devices are permitted, safety tips and trail etiquette, visit portcoquitlam.ca/e-mobility.
