Beijing mandates helmets for e-bike users, bans scooters

Wearing helmets has become a legal requirement for electric bicycle riders and passengers, with penalties for non-compliance, according to Beijing's revised non-motor vehicle regulations, which is set to take effect on May 1.

This update marks the first major revision of the regulations since its introduction in 2018, according to Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport.

The updated regulations have expanded from seven chapters and 35 articles to eight chapters and 55 articles, underscoring a new era of more refined and law-based management for non-motor vehicles in the capital.

Key changes include enhanced registration requirements, including a 10-year validity for electric bicycle licenses and plates, with options for renewal upon expiration.

The regulations also specify road-legal vehicle types, banning devices such as scooters and balance boards from roads.

To improve parking management for non-motor vehicles, the revisions mandate that public buildings, spaces, and residential areas provide parking facilities that align with construction timelines for design, construction, inspection and use. Existing facilities must be upgraded or expanded to meet public demand.

Property and management entities will be responsible for maintaining parking order and clearing abandoned bicycles. Paid parking facilities must display pricing and adhere to service standards. Government and enterprise entities are expected to maintain parking order within their areas and address illegal parking, the regulations said.

Furthermore, the regulations introduce total quantity control for internet rental bicycles, including electric bicycles. This follows successful pilot programs in several Beijing districts, such as Tongzhou, Changping and Miyun, where approximately 15,000 shared electric bicycles have been deployed and are operating smoothly.