E-Scooter Pilot Program

The E-scooter Pilot Program has been extended and will continue through the 2024 season. The City has partnered with Bird Canada to conduct the pilot. Watch the video and read through the information on this page to learn more about the pilot and how the shared e-scooter program operates in Spruce Grove.

If the video does not play, press the triangle button.

What are e-scooters?

Electric scooters (e-scooters) are motorized, two-wheeled scooters with a platform on which the rider stands. They are propelled by a battery powered electric motor. The rider controls the throttle, steering and brakes.

Check out the interactive map to see where e-scooters can and cannot be used Spruce Grove.

Respectful riding

Sidewalks and trails are a shared space that are used by people of all ages and abilities for walking, running, cycling and more. To ensure the safety and comfort of everyone using the sidewalks and trails, e-scooter users must ride in a safe and respectful manner. Remember:

Slow and steady: Slow down when approaching crowded areas or when passing pedestrians or other trail/sidewalk users.
Be aware: Pay attention to who and what is around you. Watch out for entrances and exists to driveways and parking lots, and all traffic controls.
Stay to the right, pass on the left: Use the right side of the sidewalk or trail to provide space for others.
Make space: Slow down and move to the side on narrow or busy sidewalks/trails.
Be heard: If you are going to be passing someone, use your voice, a horn or a bell to alert others to your presence.
Be seen: Make sure the headlight and tail light on your scooter are functioning properly. If they aren't, report it to Bird Canada using the app, by phone at 1-866-205-2442 or by email at 311_sprucegrove@birdcanada.co.
Don't block the path: Step off the trail when stopping. When leaving your e-scooter, make sure it's parked on the grass or in an area where it's not blocking the trail or sidewalk.

How do I sign up?

Download the Bird Canada app on the Apple App Store or Google Play to get started. Refer to the Rental Policy on the Bird Canada website for more details.

Frequently asked Questions

When does the pilot start and how long will it run for?

The pilot program started in 2023 and was extended to the 2024 season. It will begin on April 15 and end on November 30, 2024.

Where are e-scooters allowed to go within Spruce Grove?

E-scooters are permitted only on public trails, pathways, and sidewalks. They are not permitted on roads or private property. When crossing a road, e-scooter users must use a marked crosswalk. In addition, the City has identified “no go” zones. Advanced geofencing technology controls where the e-scooters are ridden and parked, and how fast they can travel. Refer to the interactive map for more details about where e-scooters can and cannot operate.

What if I see an e-scooter blocking a trail or sidewalk?

E-scooters do not need to be returned to a specific location, but they must be parked appropriately (upright, off the pedestrian corridor and not blocking access to any sidewalk or trail). If you see an e-scooter that is blocking pedestrian access to a sidewalk or trail, report the location to Bird Canada by email at 311_sprucegrove@birdcanada.co.

How many e-scooters are available in Spruce Grove?

There will be 75 to 150 e-scooters available in Spruce Grove during the pilot program, depending on demand.

Who can rent an e-scooter?

Any person age 16 or above with a smartphone and a credit card.

Are helmets required? Are they provided?

Helmets are strongly encouraged for all users; however, they are not required. Helmets are not provided with the rental of an e-scooter.

How fast do e-scooters go?

During the pilot program, speeds will be capped at 24 km/hr. This maximum speed may be lowered if the City or Bird Canada determines it to be necessary. In addition, there are several "slow zones", where geofencing technology is used to automatically limit speeds.

What safety measures are in place for users and pedestrians?

The City has taken several safety precautions to keep e-scooter users and pedestrians safe, including:

Limiting operation to trails, sidewalks and pathways only
Identifying "no go zones", "slow zones", and "no parking" zones
Limiting access to users age 16+

In addition, Bird Canada e-scooters are equipped with several safety features, including:

Enhanced automatic LED lighting (front and rear)
Automatic speed limit caps
Throttle-brake interlock (protects against accidentally holding the throttle)
Puncture-proof tires
Dynamic Stability Control Steering (stabilizes out-of-control, sudden or erratic movements and guards against unsafe turns or over corrections)
Skid detection technology (prevents improper riding behaviour)

What about privately owned e-scooters?

Under the Alberta Traffic Safety Act, e-scooters are not permitted on public roadways, trails, sidewalks or pathways. Bird Canada has applied for, and received an exemption under the Act, and is therefore permitted to operate a shared e-scooter program in Spruce Grove.

What happens during snow or inclement weather?

Bird Canada monitors the weather forecast and if there is snow, significant rainfall, or other potentially hazardous conditions, it may choose to suspend e-scooter use. During these times, all e-scooters will be disabled and cannot be rented. In addition, the City can request at any time that e-scooter use be suspended due to weather.

How much will the pilot program cost?

There is no cost to the City or taxpayers. Bird Canada is responsible for providing the e-scooters and overseeing, funding, and operating the program. The City will support the pilot program by sharing information and monitoring use of the e-scooters.

What are the benefits of e-scooters?

They can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a more sustainable environment.
They can expand Spruce Grove’s transportation network and provide a convenient and affordable transportation choice for the community.
They support the growth of the city by promoting tourism.
They encourage residents to get outside and promote an active lifestyle.

Who do I contact with a question or concern?

For questions or concerns about the e-scooter pilot program, payments/refunds, technical issues, or your account, contact Bird Canada at 1-866-205-2442 or hello@birdcanada.co.
To report an abandoned e-scooter or an e-scooter blocking a trail or sidewalk, email Bird Canada at 311_sprucegrove@birdcanada.co.
To report a collision or incident that requires police or ambulance attendance, call 911.
To report someone using an e-scooter to cause a disturbance or riding in a reckless or unsafe manner, contact Spruce Grove Enforcement Services at 780-962-7586 or the Parkland RCMP after hours non-emergency line at 825-220-7267.