ABQ Times

The City of Albuquerque is taking action against improperly parked e-scooters as part of its Shared Active Transportation Program (SATP) launched in September 2024. The program, designed to facilitate short trips via small rentable vehicles, has faced challenges with e-scooter parking. Spin, Lime, and Beam are the three vendors permitted under SATP, collectively operating over 2,000 e-scooters across the city.

During a recent sweep by the Planning Department’s Code Enforcement Division, 38 e-scooters parked improperly in the Nob Hill and UNM areas were impounded. The involved vendors now face fines, including a $100 relocation fee and a $200 daily storage charge per e-scooter.

“The honeymoon phase is over,” Planning Department Director Alan Varela stated. “Our main concerns are everyone’s safety and keeping the right of way clear for pedestrians.”

Safety remains a priority, with users required to adhere to state and local regulations and treat e-scooters with the same caution as bicycles. The City outlines several rules, such as mandatory helmet use for riders under 18, riding in the direction of traffic, and parking responsibly to avoid obstructing pedestrian pathways.

These programs must operate under permits as required by Part 8-3-5 of the city's Code of Ordinances. The City encourages users to report any issues directly to the vendors through specified hotlines or to use the 311 service for assistance. More information can be obtained from cabq.gov/planning/shared-active-transportation.