La Oliva Regulates Scooter Use
“The ultimate goal is to guarantee public safety.”
The City Council of La Oliva approved, on 26 February, a new ordinance that regulates the circulation of personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), such as electric scooters. The measure results from a joint effort between the Department of Citizen Security, led by Mayor Isaí Blanco, and the Traffic Department, headed by Christian Rodríguez.
Main Objectives
The ordinance aims to protect both residents and tourists by establishing clear rules for the use of PMVs on public roads and pathways.
Key Provisions
- Minimum age: 16 years.
- Maximum speed:
- 25 km/h on dedicated bike lanes.
- 15 km/h in pedestrian zones.
- Prohibited actions:
- Riding on sidewalks (bike lanes are preferred).
- Using a mobile phone, headphones, alcohol, or drugs while riding.
- Carrying more than one person on a single vehicle.
- Safety equipment: Helmets and reflective vests are mandatory.
- Parking: Only in designated spaces; improper parking is not allowed.
Requirements for Rental Companies
- Must obtain a license and prior authorization, including mandatory fleet and user insurance.
- Cannot rent PMVs to anyone under 16 years of age.
- Must enforce speed limits and zone restrictions through GPS technology.
- Are responsible for removing scooters or other PMVs that are incorrectly parked.
“Approving this municipal ordinance means taking another step forward in public safety, through regulations that govern road safety in our municipality,” said Mayor Isaí Blanco.
“A joint effort from the Citizen Security area and, specifically, the Local Police, which prepared the necessary reports, allowed us to regulate the ordinance together with the Traffic Department,” he added.
Traffic Councilor Christian González explained:
“The ordinance finally responds to residents’ demands and achieves greater safety on our streets, both for pedestrians and for drivers of any vehicle.”
This initiative reflects the local government’s commitment to ensuring road and citizen safety amid the growing popularity of personal mobility vehicles in recent years.