Brussels authorities have confirmed a total ban on rental electric scooters starting next year, citing a significant surge in traffic accidents and public disorder. The decision follows similar restrictions in major European capitals, including Paris, Madrid, and Prague. According to the Brussels regional government, the move aims to improve pedestrian safety and reduce urban congestion issues caused by improper parking and misuse of the vehicles.
Why is Brussels banning rental e-scooters?
The Brussels regional government implemented the ban primarily due to a sharp increase in safety incidents. Official data shows that 666 people were injured in e-scooter-related accidents in 2025, representing a 26% rise compared to the previous year. Beyond physical injuries, officials cited the frequent obstruction of public sidewalks and reports of the scooters being utilized for criminal activities, such as drug trafficking.
While rental e-scooters are being phased out, residents of Brussels will still be able to rent electric bicycles. This shift reflects a broader urban planning trend in Europe that favors e-bikes for their stability and integration with existing cycling infrastructure.
What happens to existing operators and jobs?
Current rental providers, including Bolt and Dott, will see their operating licenses expire at the end of 2026, with no possibility of renewal. The decision has drawn criticism from the industry and labor groups. According to the labor union ACV-CSC, the ban threatens dozens of jobs, most of which are classified as low-skilled positions. Both Bolt and Dott have publicly criticized the measure, arguing that shared mobility remains an essential tool for reducing reliance on private automobiles.
How does Brussels compare to other European cities?
Brussels is joining a growing list of European cities that have moved to restrict or eliminate shared micro-mobility services. In 2023, Paris became a prominent example of this trend after holding a public referendum that resulted in a ban on rental e-scooters. Like Brussels, these cities frequently cite the “clutter” of parked scooters on narrow sidewalks and the high frequency of emergency room admissions as the primary drivers for these policy changes.
| City | Status | Primary Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Paris | Banned | Safety & Public Order |
| Brussels | Banning (2026) | Accident Surge |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I still be able to use my own electric scooter in Brussels?
Yes. The current ban specifically targets the rental market. Privately owned electric scooters remain legal, though riders must still adhere to local traffic regulations.
When exactly will the rental scooters disappear?
The existing licenses for operators like Bolt and Dott are valid until the end of 2026. After that date, the city will no longer authorize shared rental schemes.
Are electric bicycles also being banned?
No. The city of Brussels continues to support electric bike rentals as a sustainable transport alternative that is perceived as safer and more orderly than e-scooters.
What do you think about the shift away from shared e-scooters in major cities? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more updates on urban transit policies.
