Cars driving on a road next to a bike path with cyclists riding along it
Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

Regulating E-Devices

  • Two e-scooters parked on a sidewalk, each with a helmet attached to the handlebars.

    E-scooters

  • Person riding an electric unicycle on a paved path.

    E-unicycle

  • E-moto, with no pedals.

    E-motos – Devices that may be marketed as e-bikes but may legally be classified as motorcycles.

  • An e-moto parked at a bike rack in downtown Madison.

    Class 2 E-Bike

E-bikes, e-scooters, and other e-devices are becoming more common across the Greater Madison region. At the same time, these technologies have evolved faster than state and federal laws, making it difficult for communities to know how to address safety concerns or determine where different devices should be ridden.

To help, the Greater Madison MPO developed guidance for municipalities that provides clear definitions and a shared understanding of the different types of e-devices.

The goal is to help communities make informed decisions and support a more consistent approach to how e-devices are regulated and used across the region.

Municipal Guidance: Regulating E-Devices

Presentation on the Guidance

At the May 2026 MPO Policy Board meeting, Transportation Planner Ben Lyman presented an overview of the guidance, which will also be included as an appendix in the MPO's Active Transportation Plan. The presentation highlights key takeaways, recommended definitions, and what the guidance means for local communities.

Watch the Guidance Presentation

Note: The presentation begins at 1:16:35.

We also launched a webpage that explains the different types of e-devices and where they can and cannot be ridden.

It's a great resource for communities to share with residents who have questions about e-devices. We'll also be adding a series of safety videos over the coming months.

All Things E-Devices 

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