Durham approves scooters, with restrictions

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Durham will soon allow electric scooters in the city, but there will be restrictions that come with them.

The ordinance passed Monday requires companies -- like Bird and Lime -- to obtain permits before deploying the scooters.

While the city is authorized, under the ordinance, to put a limit on the number of scooters in city limits, the ordinance doesn't list such a restriction currently.

Regulations on the scooters include:

• No riding on sidewalks
• Companies must implement programs to reduce barriers to low-income persons to rent the devices by providing diverse payment options
• Riders must be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet. (Bird scooters require riders to be 18.)
• Scooters are prohibited on greenway trails

The City of Raleigh proposed similar regulations this week. Council members are scheduled to vote on those regulations Tuesday.