Brussels to Ban Rental Electric Scooters Over Safety Concerns

Brussels will ban electric scooter rentals starting next year, according to city authorities. The regional government cited safety concerns and a 26% increase in accidents, with 666 injuries reported in 2025. Current licenses for operators Bolt and Dott will not be renewed after they expire in late 2026.

Why is Brussels banning electric scooter rentals?

The Brussels regional government based the decision on a rise in accidents and public disorder. According to officials, 666 people were injured in scooter-related accidents in 2025, a 26% increase over the previous year.

Authorities also cited the misuse of scooters for criminal activities, including drug smuggling. Additionally, the government noted that improperly parked scooters frequently block pathways and clutter city streets.

Did You Know? The ban in Brussels follows similar regulatory decisions made in other major European cities, including Paris, Madrid, and Prague.

How will the ban affect businesses and workers?

The decision directly impacts operators Bolt and Dott, whose licenses will not be renewed upon expiration at the end of 2026. These companies, along with the ACV-CSC union, have criticized the move.

The ACV-CSC union warned that the ban threatens dozens of jobs, specifically noting that many of these positions are held by low-skilled workers.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that this move highlights a growing tension between the push for eco-friendly “last-mile” transport and the necessity of urban order. The stakes involve a trade-off between reducing traffic congestion and managing the safety risks associated with unregulated micro-mobility.

What happens to urban mobility in Brussels?

City residents will still have access to electric bicycle rentals for navigating the city. Supporters of e-scooters previously praised the vehicles as an environmentally friendly way to avoid traffic jams.

Parisians vote on whether to ban electric scooter rentals

Critics, however, argued that the scooters obstructed pedestrians. The transition to e-bikes may serve as a compromise to maintain green transport while reducing sidewalk clutter.

What may happen next?

The phase-out of licenses could lead to a reduction in the low-skilled workforce currently employed by Bolt and Dott. Residents may likely shift their usage toward the remaining electric bicycle options as the 2026 deadline approaches.

City authorities may also implement stricter parking and safety enforcement for other micro-mobility options to prevent the issues cited in the scooter ban.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will electric scooter rentals be banned in Brussels?
The ban begins next year, though existing licenses for Bolt and Dott will remain active until they expire at the end of 2026.

Which companies are affected by this decision?
The ban specifically impacts the rental operators Bolt and Dott.

Are all electric rentals banned in the city?
No. According to city authorities, people will still be able to rent electric bicycles to move around the city.

Do you think banning rental scooters is the most effective way to improve pedestrian safety in major cities?