E-Bikes and Scooters

Good morning and Happy Thursday!  These have been a very hot topic over the last couple weeks as an item to address over the summer for district safety plans and to prevent damage to school property.  We wanted to give you some resources to help guide decisions as well as what the law actually states regarding them.  The Fire Code and Manual Planning Standards also weigh in to ensure we are not allowing these to be charged or even located in our buildings (See below).

POWERED MICROMOBILITY DEVICES

a. Powered micromobility devices include motorized bicycles, motorized scooters and other recreational mobility devices powered by a lithium-ion or lithium metal battery. The term does not include personal mobility devices ,wheelchairs or mobility scooters) or motor vehicles that are required to be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the state or jurisdiction.

b. A fire safety plan (in accordance with 2025 NYS Fire Code Section 403.10.6) shall be provided that includes emergency response actions to be taken upon detection of a fire or possible fire involving lithium-ion or lithium metal battery storage.

c. Due to the significant fire hazard of lithium-ion batteries used in powered micromobility devices, school districts must ensure that safety and precautionary measures are in place to uphold a safe learning environment for students and staff. Districts shall be advised of the following:

1. Powered micromobility devices must be parked outside and at least 6 feet from school buildings.

2. Courtyards shall not be used as parking areas for these devices

3. Lithium-ion batteries for these devices are not to be stored or charged inside any school building.

4. These devices may be charged outside of school buildings in compliance with 2025 NYS Fire Code Section 322.4.

5. Fire extinguishers do not work on lithium-ion batteries. In case of a fire, leave the area and call 911.

6. Damaged or unstable batteries shall not be disposed of in the trash. Disposal should be carried out in accordance with the local fire department’s requirements.

New York State E-Bike Laws: Age, Helmets, and Penalties – LegalClarity

 

We wish everyone a safe and successful Graduation Weekend!