Wednesday July 1st 2026
Photo by Michel Grolet
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Police Scotland has issued a plea to parents following reports of the unlawful use of E-Scooters in a Borders town.
The request from Hawick Community Policing Team comes amid concern over the use of the scooters in and around Hawick.
Many young people may have received E-Scooters as gifts or purchased them themselves.
It is important to understand that privately owned E-Scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements, cycle paths, or other public places in Scotland.
Their use is generally restricted to private land where the rider has the landowner’s permission.
E-Scooters are considered motor vehicles under Scottish law, like cars and motor vehicles, this means that you must have all the same documents, including insurance and a licence, you would need to drive a car or motorbike.
Anyone found riding a privately owned E-Scooter in a public place may be committing several offences under road traffic legislation.
Depending on the circumstances, riders may be reported for offences including driving without insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.
Police Scotland has the power to seize E-Scooters being used unlawfully.
Once seized, an E-Scooter may not be returned and could ultimately be destroyed.
A Hawick Community Policing Team spokesperson said: “Local officers have received increasing reports and concerns regarding the use of E-Scooters in and around Hawick.
“We would ask parents speak with their child about the legal restrictions surrounding E-Scooters and the potential consequences of using them in public places.
“If your child owns an E-Scooter, you may wish to consider removing access to it or disposing of it appropriately before action is taken.
“We appreciate your support in helping to keep our young people and the wider community safe.”
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