From Sunday 13 July 2025, e-scooters and other personal mobility devices (PMDs) will be legal to ride on many roads and paths across South Australia, following the finalisation of a new state-wide regulatory framework.

The announcement, made in late June by the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis, confirms the legalisation of private PMD use after several years of trials and public consultation. Until now, use of e-scooters has only been permitted under council-run hire schemes in select areas.

Where and how PMDs can be used

Under the new rules, riders aged 16 and over will be allowed to ride their own e-scooter, e-skateboard, e-solo-wheel or other eligible PMD:

• On footpaths, shared paths, beaches, and crossings – max speed: 10km/h
• On bike paths, separated footpaths and separated bike lanes – max speed: 25km/h
• On bike lanes and roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less – max speed:      25km/h
• On roads with a 60km/h speed limit (e-scooters only) – must stay in the bike lane and not exceed 25km/h

Riders must always wear a helmet and use front and rear lights when riding at night or in low light.

Device requirements

To be classified as a legal PMD in South Australia, a device must:

• Have at least one wheel
• Be electric and weigh 45kg or less
• Be designed for one person (no passengers)
• Be able to stop safely
• Meet electrical safety standards
• Fit within specific size limits (max 125cm long, 70cm wide, 135cm high)

Devices that do not meet these requirements (including pedal-assist bikes, traditional skateboards, and oversized or seated scooters) will remain illegal on public land.

Fines and penalties

Most PMD offences carry a maximum court-imposed penalty of $2,500, though on-the-spot expiation fines also apply for common breaches:

• Speeding: Up to $215 expiation (e.g. exceeding 10km/h on footpaths or 25km/h      on roads and bike lanes)
• Using a mobile phone while riding: $68 expiation
• Failing to wear a helmet: $125 expiation
• Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Up to $500 penalty
• Riding with a passenger: $129 expiation
• Riding a PMD under age 16: Illegal. Adult supervisors may be fined $129
• Other offences, such as riding on prohibited roads, towing a trailer, or riding side-by-side, also attract expiation fines ranging from $68 to $469, with a $2,500 maximum if prosecuted in court

A $102 Victims of Crime Levy applies to expiation notices. Additional road laws may also apply depending on the offence.

The government has confirmed that use will be closely monitored for 12 months, with a full review scheduled for July 2026.

Public transport ban and insurance reminders

At launch, PMDs will not be permitted on Adelaide Metro trains, trams, or buses due to ongoing safety concerns around battery fires seen in other states. The government is exploring safe options to eventually integrate PMDs with public transport systems.

Riders are also reminded that insurance is not mandatory, but any damage caused to people or property could result in personal liability.

E-scooter hire and local rules

Commercial hire schemes can continue operating from 13 July under council-issued permits. Devices must still comply with the new PMD regulations. Councils will retain the power to manage parking, geofencing, and impose additional safety requirements on operators.

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Bike SA supports the move to legalise e-scooters and other PMDs. However, we are mindful that increased use of PMDs, particularly on shared paths and footpaths, introduces new safety challenges. We look forward to working closely with the government ahead of the 12-month review in July 2026 to improve safety for all road and path users.

For more details on the new rules, visit the My Licence website.