Madison Park

Skateboards and Scooters

What Can You Do and Can't Do

SKATEBOARDS / SCOOTERS


The South Division of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has received several questions regarding the use of motorized skateboards (four wheels) and electric razor scooters (two wheels). The following are the most common questions, along with the answers.



Q: Is my 13-year old child allowed to ride a motorized skateboard in the street?



A: No. A motorized skateboard qualifies as a "motor vehicle" under state law; therefore, the operator must have a valid drivers license. In addition, the skateboard must be registered, inspected, and insured. Since, as a practical matter, those requirements cannot be met, no one can ride a motorized skateboard in the street.



Q: Is my 13-year old child allowed to ride a motorized skateboard on the sidewalk?



A: No. Riding a motorized skateboard on the sidewalk is prohibited by city ordinance and state law. This applies to all ages.



Q: Is my 15-year old allowed to ride an electric razor scooter on the street or sidewalk?



A: No. A razor scooter qualifies as a “moped” under state law. The operator of a moped must be at least 16 years old, use an approved safety helmet, and obey all traffic laws. In addition, a moped cannot be operated on the sidewalk.



Q: Are children allowed to ride skateboards (non-motorized) or rollerblade in the street?



A: No. There is a city ordinance that prohibits the use or operation of roller skates, skateboards, inline skates, coasters, toy vehicles, or similar devices on the street, except when crossing at a crosswalk. Again, this applies to all ages.



If you have any questions regarding these laws please contact Officer Ryan Jackson by email at rjackson1@cmpd.org or at the South Division Office at 704-544-4835.