Primorsky Territory cracks down on electric scooter safety with new law

Lawmakers in the Primorsky Territory Legislative Assembly have passed a new bill to regulate electric scooters and other personal mobility devices. The move aims to address growing safety concerns and gaps in existing legislation. Johnny Avdoi, chairman of the Economic Policy and Property Committee, sponsored the law to provide clearer rules for PMD use. Since January 2026, Primorsky Territory has recorded 17 traffic accidents involving electric scooters. Eight of these incidents resulted in injuries, with five victims being minors. Ten of the accidents occurred in Vladivostok alone, highlighting the need for stricter controls.

Under the new law, municipal authorities can now set their own regulations in urban planning codes. These include restrictions on PMD movement, full bans in certain public areas, and rules on rental station locations. Vladivostok has already implemented a ban on motorcycles and PMDs along the Sportivnaya Harbor waterfront, covering devices like electric scooters, hoverboards, unicycles, and Segways.

The electric scooter season in the region runs from April 11 to November 1. Riders must follow safety rules such as operating sober, riding solo, keeping speeds under 25 km/h, dismounting at pedestrian crossings, and parking without blocking footpaths. The new legislation gives local governments the power to designate no-go zones and impose further restrictions as needed. Authorities hope the measures will reduce accidents and improve public safety. The law marks a shift towards more localised and detailed regulation of PMDs.