E-Scooters in Vernon
The City of Vernon was one of the first six communities to join British Columbia’s provincial e-scooter pilot program. In 2024, the program was renewed for another four years, expanding to 25 communities that continue testing the safety and efficiency of e-scooters.
Program Overview
The City has partnered with Bird Canada, which will provide shared e-scooters and e-bikes in the community. Bird Canada is the exclusive provider for this service.
Bird Canada, a Canadian-operated company, will introduce a fleet of 325 silver and blue Bird e-scooters and e-bikes in Vernon. These shared devices offer residents and visitors a flexible, low-emission transportation option. The program launches on March 3, 2025.
Enhancing the Shared E-scooter Program
A 2022 study by the City of Vernon confirmed the benefits of shared e-scooters in Vernon while identifying key areas for improvement:
• Tidier parking to keep sidewalks clear and organized
• Affordability to ensure the service remains budget-friendly for riders
To address these priorities, Bird Canada will implement a hybrid parking model and introduce affordability initiatives.
Where to Park
• Downtown: Riders must park in designated parking areas, which can be found in the Bird app.
• Outside downtown: Riders can park in the furniture zone, the space between the curb and sidewalk where amenities like benches and bike racks are located.
These changes will help keep e-scooters accessible, affordable, and well-integrated into the community.
Affordability Initiatives
Bird Canada is introducing programs to make e-scooters more affordable for Vernon residents.
Bird Free Access Program
This program provides up to four, free, 30-minute rides daily for eligible riders. It is available to community organizations that serve veterans, seniors, and other eligible populations. Organizations can contact Bird Canada to enroll.
Equity Zone Pricing
Bird Canada is piloting Equity Zones, offering automatic 25 to 50 percent ride discounts in select areas of Vernon.
Level 1- 50% discount
Level 2- 25% discount
Find equity zones by using the interactive map, here.
Contact Bird Canada
For all inquiries about the shared e-scooter and e-bike program, please contact Bird Canada directly.
Phone: 1-866-205-2442
Email:
• hello@bird.co – Refund or payment inquiries
• 311_Vernon@birdcanada.co – General program questions or concerns
Social Media:
• Twitter: @BirdRideCanada
• Instagram: @BirdCanada
• Online Form: Available through the Bird Canada website
City of Vernon Local Riding Rules
Riding Rules
Riders can rent and operate Bird e-scooters and e-bikes within a defined service area (available in the Bird app).
Permitted riding areas:
• Boulevard multi-use paths adjacent to streets
• Select paved recreational multi-use trails in parks
• Bike lanes on regional roads
• Roads without bike lanes, where riders must stay close to the right-hand curb or shoulder
• E-scooters are allowed on sidewalks but must yield to pedestrians and travel at a safe speed
• E-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks and must follow standard cycling rules
Restricted areas:
• Certain zones will be designated as no-ride areas. If a rider enters these zones, the device will automatically slow down and stop.