Stricter Regulations for E-Scooters and E-Bikes in Hamburg
Penalties for Improper Parking
In a bid to address concerns over improperly parked e-scooters and e-bikes, Hamburg has introduced stricter rules. Individuals who park their own or rented devices in a manner that obstructs traffic now face fines. Additionally, authorities may remove or relocate such vehicles, incurring a fee of €30 per scooter or €100 per e-bike for the providers.
These measures aim to alleviate the increasing congestion caused by haphazardly parked e-scooters and e-bikes in Hamburg’s urban areas. To ensure compliance, providers are obligated to transmit penalty notices for improperly parked devices to the responsible parties.
Increased Usage Fees
Four major providers—Bolt, Dott, Lime, and Voi—will face increased operating costs under a new framework agreement valid until the end of 2027. The city will impose a monthly usage fee of €2 per e-scooter or e-bike. Within Ring 2, an area encompassing the city center, the Schanzenviertel, and neighborhoods around the Außenalster, Stadtpark, Barmbek, and Hamm, the fee rises to €6.50.
These revenue streams will be earmarked for the construction of designated parking areas for e-scooters and e-bikes. The city’s objective is to strike a balance between encouraging sustainable mobility options while minimizing the negative impacts of improper parking.
Industry Response
The four providers have welcomed the long-term planning security provided by the new contract. They acknowledge that e-scooters and e-bikes have become an integral part of Hamburg’s transportation network, facilitating millions of journeys annually. They emphasize the importance of investing the usage fees in expanding parking facilities.
Despite the increased costs, Dott has stated that it will not raise prices for users. The company believes that the benefits of e-scooter and e-bike usage outweigh the additional expenses.
Enforcement and Regulations
Hamburg has already designated no-parking zones where users cannot end their rental periods. Additionally, the number of e-scooters within Ring 2 is subject to limits. The city’s traffic authority utilizes geospatial data to monitor compliance with these regulations in real time.
These measures are intended to reduce the nuisance and hazards associated with improperly parked e-scooters and e-bikes. The city aims to strike a balance between promoting sustainable mobility solutions and ensuring an orderly and safe urban environment.
