CONNECT with the CityMicromobility! Safe Rides, Good Vibes
Welcome to the City of San Diego’s new Micromobility webpage, your ultimate destination for all things micromobility! Micromobility refers to small, lightweight, low-speed vehicles that are nonelectric or electric, including bicycles, scooters, mopeds, skateboards or other similar vehicles.
Micromobility devices provide convenient, ecofriendly transportation alternatives helping to reduce traffic congestion and reach the City’s climate goals. The City strives to enhance micromobility safety education and boost ridership as part of its commitment to becoming a more sustainable city. On this page, you’ll find micromobility resources, such as training videos, online courses, in-person events, and organizations that promote micromobility and sustainable transportation. Join us as we learn more about these small but mighty mobility options, embracing sustainable and accessible transportation throughout San Diego!
Micromobility Safety Rules for Riders
Always be alert and yield to pedestrians
Stay safe while riding by staying alert and keeping an eye out for anything in your path. Refrain from using cell phones and earbuds while riding. If necessary, restrict usage to only one earbud. Be sure to give way to pedestrians while riding, making sure they can walk safely at all times.
Dress in appropriate riding attire
Wear closed-toed shoes and bright-colored, fitted clothing. Make sure to avoid loose articles of clothing that hang down over the wheels or pedals.
Use proper gear and equipment
Always wear your helmet and equip your vehicle with the appropriate reflectors and lights.
Ride in the same direction as traffic
Never ride in a direction opposing traffic. If riding on the street, follow “first come, first served” protocols.
Ride where your vehicle belongs
All micromobility vehicles (except for skateboards) are permitted to ride in the street, unless otherwise prohibited by local laws and regulations. Electronic or motorized vehicles are prohibited from sidewalks.
Signal your intentions
Use hand signals to show where you’re going while riding, making sure others know your next move.
Use a safe battery and charge appropriately
If you are purchasing an e-bike, e-scooter, or other motorized micromobility vehicle, make sure to check the safety of the battery. When charging, always ensure that charging protocols are in place to avoid electric vehicle (EV) battery fires. For more information, reference our “Micromobility Charging & Battery Protocol” section below.
Follow all rules of the road and requirements for safe riding!
Micromobility Charging & Battery Protocol
If you are purchasing an e-bike, e-scooter, or other motorized vehicle, make sure to check the safety of the battery. When charging, always ensure that the charging protocols are in place to practice safe charging and avoid electric vehicle (EV) battery fires.
Did you know?
All types of batteries are considered hazardous waste in California. Learn about proper battery disposal on the City's Environmental Services Department website.
- Buy a vehicle with a safety-tested battery.
- Verify proper installation by certified and reputable manufacturers.
- Must meet requirements under IRC 30D and must be in a written agreement with the IRS. For more information, visit: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/clean-vehicle-credit-qualified-manufacturer-requirements
- Avoid aftermarket batteries (cheaply manufactured batteries that do not meet safety standards and increase risk of malfunction).
- Verify proper installation by certified and reputable manufacturers.
- Ensure regular maintenance and inspection of vehicle and battery systems.
- Keep vehicle in good shape, and only have repairs performed by a qualified professional.
- Avoid storing outside during harsh weather conditions.
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for charging and storage:
- Indoor storage, away from sunlight
- Proper positioning
- Storage away from doorways
- Dry environment
- Battery maintenance
- Avoid extreme temperatures through charging and operation.
- Supervise the vehicle while charging; do not overcharge.
- Only charge one device at a time.
- Dispose of batteries appropriately.
E-Bikes, E-Scooters, Traditional Bikes & Scooters, and Skateboards
| Type of Vehicle | Age Requirement | Helmet Requirement | Speed Limit | Equipment Requirements | Navigation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bike/scooter | N/A | If under 18 years old | N/A | Reflectors, headlights & taillights | Street |
| E-Bike | 16 years old | All ages | 28 mph | Reflectors, headlights & taillights | Street |
| E-Scooter | 16 years old | If under 18 years old | 15 mph | Reflectors, headlights & taillights | Street |
| Skateboard | N/A | If under 18 years old | N/A | N/A | Sidewalk |
Helpful Resources and Links
- Learn how the City of San Diego Is Better By Bike.
- To explore bike paths and to plan the quickest and safest route, use SANDAG’s Bike Map.
- To find bike rack and bike parking locations, use the City of San Diego’s Bicycle Parking Map.
- For information on e-bike resources, visit CalBike (California Bicycle Coalition) E-Bike Resources.
- Learn about the State’s e-bike incentive program and the environmental impact of e-bikes: California E-Bike Incentive Project (ebikeincentives.org).
- The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) offers a range of bike services to keep you rolling, such as access to secure bike lockers at major transit stations, visit SANDAG Bike Services to learn more.
- For information on proper equipment and gear, rules of the road and bicycle laws, bicycle crashes in California, hazard avoidance, and best practices, visit CHP (California Highway Patrol) Electric Bicycle Safety and Training Online Course.
Thanks to a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) funds a variety of pedestrian and bicycle educational programs in the City of San Diego. The SDPD partners with Circulate San Diego and the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition to conduct bike safety courses, bike rodeos, community bike rides, and safety presentations at school assemblies.
Learn more about their offerings: