NEWS RELEASE

September 14, 2018

For Immediate Release

City Takes Proactive Vote to Regulate Dockless Electric Scooters

SAVANNAH, GA (September 14, 2018) — Savannah City Council approved an ordinance that prohibits any shared mobility device from being placed in the public right-of-way, on public property or offered for use anywhere in the City.

Other cities have found that without docking stations, scooters and other shared-use electric devices are often abandoned by users on streets, sidewalks and other public places. The scooters can become hazards for motorists and pedestrians.

State law requires passengers riding or operating any two-wheeled motorized vehicles to wear helmets. This requirement is often disregarded by users of shared mobility devices.

“After seeing some of the challenges stemming from the introduction of these devices in other cities, the City of Savannah chose to get in front of the issue so that we could establish appropriate guidance and regulation for their use.” said Sustainability Director Nick Deffley. “This ordinance is intended to be a short-term response, allowing City Staff and the community to work together to develop a long-term solution.”