South Australian riders over the age of 16 will be able to ride e-scooters and other personal mobility devices on public roads and paths from 13 July.
Riders of all devices – including e-scooters, e-skateboards and e-solo wheels that meet the regulated specifications – must travel at 10km/h or less on footpaths, shared paths and beaches.
Only e-scooters will be allowed to ride on roads where the speed limit is up to 60km/h, but they must ride in the bike lane and no faster than 25km/h.
All other devices will be allowed to ride on roads where the speed limit is up to 50km/h and must travel no faster than 25km/h. Devices must be used in the bike lane, or if there is no designated bike lane, on the left of the road as per bicycle rules.
Riders will be required to wear a helmet and use a flashing light when riding at night or in low light conditions.
They will not require a licence or vehicle registration.
It will be an offence to ride under the influence of alcohol and drugs and riders must not carry a passenger or use a mobile phone while riding.
Initially, personal mobility devices will not be permitted on Adelaide Metro trains, trams and buses.
The regulations have been informed by a number of e-scooter trials and consultation with industry experts.
E-scooter hire companies can continue operating under business permits, with local councils to be responsible for parking and storing.
A widespread public education campaign will get underway before 13 July to bring South Australians up to speed on the new rules.
Tom Koutsantonis, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, said making it easier to get around via e-scooter would reduce South Australia's carbon footprint and offer an efficient way to complete short and medium-length commutes.
"I am pleased we have been able to update our road laws to reflect this, after South Australians made it very clear through our extensive consultation process that this is what they wanted," he said.
"These regulations will ensure all riders can enjoy the sustainability and mobility benefits, safely and for many years to come."
The state government will review the operation of the new rules in July 2026.
The news comes as Western Australia and Queensland, two jurisdictions that have regulated personal mobility devices for some time, undertake reviews.
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