The City of Houston is reviewing proposed changes to its scooter ordinance that would ban rental scooters from public right-of-way areas in Downtown, Midtown, and East Downtown.
The City Council’s Quality of Life Committee will evaluate the proposed amendment to Chapter 45, Article XIV. If the committee approves the change, the full council may vote on the ordinance in the coming weeks.
City officials stated that the proposed restrictions aim to improve public safety. According to a city presentation, scooter-related crashes increased from three incidents in 2021 to 21 in 2024—a rise of over 600%.
Two of those crashes in 2024 resulted in fatalities. A city map shows that 53% of reported incidents occurred in downtown Houston, where several scooter rental companies operate.
The city’s enforcement task force reported additional problems associated with scooters, including blocked sidewalks, unpermitted vendors, noise disturbances, and criminal activity.
Officials linked some incidents to illegal weapons possession. Councilmember Julian Ramirez, who chairs the committee reviewing the ordinance, said the proposal prioritizes pedestrian safety in high-traffic areas.
Some business owners raised concerns that the proposed ban could unfairly impact compliant companies. Maisam Pervez, co-owner of Bolt Scooters, said his business has followed Houston’s regulations since 2021. Bolt requires ID verification, in-person safety waivers, and mandates scooter returns to private property to avoid street clutter.
Pervez said his company started an online petition last week and gathered more than 1,100 signatures within days. He argued that the city should involve responsible operators in developing solutions instead of issuing blanket restrictions. He also noted that Houston represents one of Bolt’s largest markets, and the proposed ban could carry significant financial consequences.
The Quality of Life Committee will hold a public comment session on the proposed ordinance at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 24, at Houston City Hall. Business owners, including Pervez, plan to attend and speak directly to council members.
Residents who want to provide input can register by emailing atlarge1@houstontx.gov or by visiting the City Council’s committee page before 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23.
