Festive warning over e-scooters
Moray Council’s Trading Standards team is urging consumers to think carefully before buying e-scooters as a Christmas gift this year.
Although e-scooters remain popular presents, it is important to remember that they cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements or in any other public spaces. Their use is currently restricted to private land, with the landowner’s permission.
Trading Standards officers are also reminding buyers to purchase only from reputable retailers and to choose well-known, trusted brands. This helps ensure the scooter meets UK safety standards and reduces the risk of serious fires linked to unsafe or counterfeit batteries.
Consumers are also advised to only use reputable chargers, to unplug them when not in use and also to avoid charging e-scooters overnight, again due to the risk of fire.
Cllr David Gordon, Chair of Moray Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Committee, said: “E-scooters are powered by lithium-ion batteries and in recent years some people have unknowingly bought unsafe or counterfeit models that fail to meet UK safety standards - with tragic consequences.
“If you do decide to buy one this Christmas, please make sure you know exactly what you’re bringing into your home. Unregulated devices can pose a serious fire risk.
“Even when bought legitimately, they cannot be used on public land and this is worth keeping in mind if you’re thinking about buying one.”
Between January 2024 and December 2024, Police Scotland seized 442 e-scooters and e-bike across the country – an increased of 802% from the year before.
Chief Inspector Michael McKenzie, Local Area Commander, added: “E-scooters cannot be legally registered by the DVLA, which means they are illegal to use on public roads. Anyone purchasing an e-scooter has a responsibility to be aware of the law and the implications of using one in a public place. Enforcement action could include having your e-scooter seized and you may be fined.”
"It is not only illegal to use e-scooters and certain types of e-bikes on the roads, but also potentially dangerous.
"Officers will continue to stop and seize illegally used e-bikes and e-scooters, and we would urge members of the public to only use those designed and intended for use on the road and stop placing themselves and others in danger
"Their illegal use can impact local communities and anyone with concerns should contact us so a proportionate policing response can be provided.”