Shared mobility services offer transportation devices for short-term rental from the public right of way. In Austin, there are different types of shared mobility services: shared micromobility and shared vehicles.

 

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Operating Shared Mobility devices in Austin

Providers interested in operating in Austin can learn more about the regulations, license application process and other requirements.

Shared Mobility Operations map

The Shared Mobility Operations map shows infrastructure and operating areas for shared mobility and the number of devices allowed.

Micromobility

Micromobility devices may include kick scooters, skateboards, or other small mobility devices that do not have a license plate. Micromobility does not include personal assistive mobility devices, such as electric wheelchairs or other medical mobility devices. On sidewalks, riding and parking micromobility are allowed if done in a safe and respectful manner.

Micromobility Rider Guidelines

Learn about micromobility laws and safety in Austin, and plan your ride with the Austin Bike Map. As for riding in park areas and on trails, there are certain areas where scooters are not allowed.

  • Ride one person per device.
  • Yield to people walking, bicycling, and people with disabilities.
  • Wear a helmet for safety. This is required for people under age 18.
  • Ride sober. Do not ride under the influence of intoxicants.
  • Follow traffic laws, signals and signs.
  • Ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Park with care. Keep the sidewalk open.

E-Scoots

E-Scoots 2

How and Where to Park

Micromobility is convenient to use because these services do not require parking at a designated station or dock when a ride ends. When parking a shared e-scooter or dockless bicycle, remember to:

  • Keep the sidewalk clear. Make sure at least 3 feet is clear to allow access for other people.
  • Park off bridges and away from creeks and rivers. Protect our environment by keeping devices away from water.
  • Stay off private property. Keep devices on the public right-of-way for the next rider.

Safety is in the hands of our community. If you see an improperly parked device, reposition it if possible or report it to Austin 3-1-1.

Where to park micromobility

  • Parking boxes: Marked spaces for dockless devices. Parking boxes are tape or stenciled outlines on the ground and may include stand-up posts.
  • Micromobility corrals: Bike racks and markings on the ground offer designated parking for both scooters and bicycles.

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Shared Mobility Providers
 
Provider Affordable Program Fleet Customer Support
Bird Bird Access 3,000 scooters 866-205-2442
hello@bird.co
Lime Lime Access 3,700 scooters
180 e-bikes
888-546-3345
support@li.me

All service fees, including promotions, costs per minute, trip and unlock fees can be found in provider-specific applications. Fleet size reflects the maximum number of devices allowed. It may not reflect the total number of devices available in the public right of way.

Here is the eligibility requirements for Lime’s Access program but the application will need to be completed to unlock access.

Here is the eligibility requirements for Bird’s Community Pricing program, an application for the program will need to be completed to provide proof of eligibility.

 

Shared Vehicle Services

Shared vehicle services may include shared mopeds, motorcycles, smart cars, small electric vehicles, and other motor vehicles. These vehicles must have license plates and can operate only in the roadway, not on sidewalks. Texas state rules and regulations for driving motor vehicles are the same for using shared vehicle services.

Shared Vehicle Providers & Parking

Motorcycle/moped parking: Personal and shared motorcycles and mopeds may park on the street. There are also designated parking spaces for motorcycles/mopeds around Austin, marked by posted signs. Motorcycles and mopeds may not park on sidewalks.

Open Data and Reporting Tools

Austin Transportation has open data and reporting tools on shared mobility, available for public use and analysis. This data is anonymous and streamlined using data standards shared by leading American cities.

The Open Data Portal provides quarterly summaries for statistics, such as total trips, total miles traveled, average trips per day, median distance traveled and median trip duration. The portal also includes a heat map that shows the number of trips across different areas of the city.

Open Data Portal

The following reports summarize the community process in 2018 when the program began.

Report Issues and Send Feedback

Report issues and concerns to Austin 3-1-1 by phone or the 3-1-1 mobile app. If you see an act of vandalism or dumping into waterways in progress, call 9-1-1.

For other comments and questions, please contact sharedmobility@austintexas.gov or 512-974-7857.