Overview
- The proposal on Wednesday’s agenda would bar operating or renting e‑scooters citywide from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.
- Distribution from temporary structures would be prohibited under the measure.
- The ordinance would create a new micromobility code section defining offenses and penalties, authorize HPD and ARA to impound devices, set fees, and establish a hearing process, with related parking rule updates.
- Officials point to Houston Fire Department data showing roughly 78% of scooter‑related EMS calls occur between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m., alongside 2021–2025 enforcement results that include 129 seizures, over 3,000 rider warnings, and eight arrests.
- Personally owned scooters used for certain commuting purposes would be exempt, as downtown groups back the plan for safety reasons and scooter companies and operators warn of economic harm following public comment before the vote.