Are you legal? Motorbikes, Mini-bikes, Mopeds, Go-peds and Scooters

Avonmouth Neighbourhood Policing Team work in partnership with Bristol City Council to combat the problem of illegal motorcycling, mini-bikes, mopeds, motorised skateboards and scooters. Using these vehicles may also be classed as Anti-social Behaviour and if repeated or persistent could lead to providing evidence towards an Anti- social Behaviour Order (ASBO).

The danger

Any untrained and/or young person riding these vehicles can be a danger to themselves and others. Anyone riding where they shouldn‘t be is putting other users or pedestrians at risk. Any person who rides dangerously faces legal proceedings and possible imprisonment.

Noise nuisance

Councils have the power under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to take action in respect of a noise nuisance caused by unreasonable use of motor vehicles used off road. Following the serving of a legal notice (an Abatement Notice) councils have the power to seize the offender's vehicle and take prosecution proceedings.

Riding on land without permission

If any of these vehicles are ridden in parks, on footpaths, in fields without the landowner's permission, the rider commits an offence of riding on land other than a road. Noise nuisance offences are also applicable when riding on such land.

Powers to seize

Under the Police Reform Act 2002, the police have the power to seize motor vehicles that are being used to cause alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public. This includes the use of motorcycles, mini-bikes, 'go-peds', mopeds and quad bikes. Repeat offenders are warned that they may have their motor vehicle taken from them and disposed of and may have to pay the cost of recovery. Parents are warned that they might be responsible for paying fines incurred if a motor vehicle is seized from them.

Insurance

Any vehicle which includes motorbikes, mini-bikes, Go-peds and scooters needs insurance to be in a public place and road, even if the vehicle is being pushed.

Go-peds, Mini- bikes etc, what's the law?

Go-peds, citybugs, buzz-boards, motorised skateboards, and mini-motorbikes (both electric powered and petrol engined), are the most recent additions to our streets and open spaces. They are considered to be a mechanically propelled vehicle and subject to the same laws as motorcycles. They cannot be used on a road unless they conform to the law. They cannot be used on pavements, grass verges etc. These vehicles may only be used in private gardens or on land where the rider has been given permission by the landowner.

The community can assist police in tackling this problem by reporting incidents via 999 if it is an emergency or via the non emergency number 0845 456 7000.

We can’t tackle this issue without your help.