Saskatoon is expecting shared electric scooters will be available for rent in Saskatoon by spring 2023. A two-year pilot will test the program framework that has been created through public consultation.

City Council approved the project this week. Two vendors will operate up to 500 shared e-scooters from spring to fall each year.

Some of the concerns that have arisen around e-scooters include safety for riders and pedestrians, enforcement and cost.

The e-scooters will have a centre column and a floorboard. There is no seat, no operable pedals and they don’t self-balance. To rent them, you have to access a mobile app to unlock them and follow instructions for parking to return them.

Director of Transportation Jay Magus says geofencing and sidewalk detection can limit the speed and location the e-scooters can travel and there will be incentives within the app for wearing a helmet and proper parking.

Riders will have to be 16 years or older, will have to wear a helmet, can only operate on streets with a 50 km/h and lower speed limit and operate at a maximum speed of 24 km/h.