Paphos Municipality, in cooperation with the Traffic Police, is launching regular inspections of electric scooters and other forms of micromobility. Particular attention will be paid to companies renting out vehicles without the required permits, as well as riders who violate the current rules.
Acting Mayor of Paphos Angelos Onisiforou stated that the period during which the authorities turned a blind eye to violations is over. Inspections will now be carried out on a permanent basis. The main objective is to improve safety for residents and tourists, reduce the number of accidents and restore order on the city’s streets, particularly in popular tourist areas.
What Rules Apply to Electric Scooters in Cyprus?
The tighter controls follow legislative changes that came into force on 19 May. One of the main changes was an increase in the minimum age for riding an electric scooter from 14 to 17. Such vehicles may now only be used from the age at which a learner’s driving licence can be obtained. The authorities said the measure was introduced in response to the growing number of accidents involving teenagers.
Technical requirements have also been tightened. Electric scooters must comply with European safety standards and carry the necessary certification. If a vehicle does not meet the established requirements or is being used in violation of the rules, police may confiscate it during an inspection. At the same time, the speed threshold at which liability applies has been increased from 20 to 25 km/h.
The main operating rules introduced in 2022 remain in force. The maximum permitted speed is 20 km/h, while on pavements and in public squares it is limited to 10 km/h. Pedestrians have priority in all cases. Riders must also wear a protective helmet and reflective clothing, while the electric scooter itself must be equipped with functioning brakes, front and rear lights and a bell.
What Fines Apply for Violations?
Liability applies not only to riders, but also to adults who allow minors to use electric scooters. Penalties are also imposed for carrying passengers below the permitted age. A fine of €50 may be issued for riding without lights, using an electric scooter outside permitted areas or parking it incorrectly.
More serious violations carry a fine of €85. This applies to underage riding, speeding, failure to wear a protective helmet and breaches of traffic regulations. A complete ban on electric scooters in public places was previously discussed in Parliament, but MPs considered the measure too severe and rejected it.
What E-Bike Owners Need to Know
European rules continue to apply in Cyprus, under which an electric bicycle is defined as a vehicle with a motor output of no more than 250 W, while electric assistance must automatically cut off once the speed reaches 25 km/h. Models equipped with a throttle are not classified as electric bicycles.
Nevertheless, vehicles with power outputs ranging from 800 to 2,000 W and capable of reaching speeds of 45–60 km/h remain available on the market. Some manufacturers install speed limiters that can be removed after purchase, or use hidden modes that temporarily reduce speed during police inspections. Such vehicles are often used without registration or insurance, creating serious problems in the event of a road traffic accident.
If the power output exceeds 250 W or the vehicle is capable of travelling faster than 25 km/h, it is legally classified as a moped. Registration, a driving licence and compliance with all requirements applicable to motorised two-wheelers are then mandatory. Illegally modifying an electric bicycle may result in a fine of up to €3,000 and possible confiscation of the vehicle.
The authorities also note that enforcement remains inconsistent. Standard electric bicycles are checked more frequently by police officers, while more powerful models often receive less attention. Cyprus is currently preparing separate legislation intended to introduce clearer rules for high-speed electric vehicles that do not fall under the existing regulations for electric bicycles.
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