Motorized Scooters

Illegal to Ride on City Streets, Alleys and Sidewalks

Motorized scooters and pocket bikes are a relatively new phenomenon and there is a great deal of confusion where these relatively inexpensive motor vehicles can be legally ridden.

Motorized scooters and pocket bikes are not designed or manufactured for on-highway operation, and because they lack the equipment and certification needed to comply with federal highway safety regulations, they cannot be registered for on-highway operation in Wisconsin.

Since all motor vehicles must be properly registered for operation on any public highway, street or alley, the operator of a motorized scooter can be issued a traffic citation for operating an unregistered motor vehicle. The fine amount can be up to $200 plus court costs and assessments.

A driver’s license is required to operate a motor vehicle on any highway, street, or alley in Wisconsin. Although a motorized scooter cannot be registered, it is still considered a motor vehicle. An unlicensed person found operating a motorized scooter on a public street, alley or sidewalk can be issued a traffic citation for operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license. The fine amount for a first offense can be up to $200 plus court costs and assessments.

Since sidewalks in Oak Creek are part of the highway right-of-way, the laws regulating operation of motor vehicles apply on sidewalks as well as on the roadway itself.  This means it is illegal to operate motorized scooters or pocket bikes on public sidewalks or bike trails.

Where Can Motorized Scooters be Ridden Legally?

Motorized scooters and pocket bikes can be operated with permission on private property, and on private roads and driveways. "Private road or driveway" is every place in private ownership and used for vehicular travel only by the owner and those having express or implied permission from the owner.

Motorized scooters can be ridden in backyards, fields, and other off-road locations on private property, but only with the permission of the property owner.

Can a Parent or Guardian be Held Responsible?

YES! No parent or guardian of any child shall authorize or knowingly permit such child to use or operate a play vehicle on a roadway. Citations can be issued to parents or guardians who allow these violations to occur.