Modernizing Ontario’s Framework for Power-Assisted Bicycles (E-Bikes)

ERO number
026-0422
Notice type
Regulation
Act
Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990
Posted by
Ministry of Transportation
Notice stage
Proposal
Proposal posted
Comment period
April 23, 2026 - June 7, 2026 (45 days) Open
Last updated

There is no requirement to post this notice on the Environmental Registry of Ontario, but we want to hear your thoughts. Submit a comment and tell us what you think. Learn about the consultation process and types of notices on the registry.

This consultation closes at 11:59 p.m. on:
June 7, 2026

Proposal summary

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is proposing to update and modernize the definition of power-assisted bicycles (also known as e-bikes) in Ontario through a new regulation governing their use and safety.

Why consultation isn't required

The Environmental Bill of Rights does not require this proposal to be posted on the Environmental Registry. However, we are seeking public input on both the Regulatory Registry and Environmental Registry.

Proposal details

Since the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) was amended to recognize power-assisted bicycles (also known as electric bikes or e-bikes) as a permanent vehicle type, the range and capabilities of electric vehicles have evolved significantly.

In response, amendments related to e-bikes were included within the Safer Roads and Communities Act, 2024 (SRCA). These amendments expand regulation-making powers under the HTA to enable the province to update and refine the definition of e-bikes, including the ability to establish distinct classes of e-bikes with tailored operator, vehicle and safety requirements.

The proposal to redefine e-bikes in Ontario offers potential environmental benefits by encouraging a shift from higher-emission travel modes to lower emission alternatives, supporting congestion reduction, improving first and last-mile connections to transit, and enabling the ministry to better respond to technological changes that may promote cleaner transportation options.

The key benefits of an updated regulatory framework for e-bikes include:

  • Improving safety by enabling requirements that reflect differences in e-bike speed, weight, and design
  • Providing greater clarity for riders, industry, municipalities, and enforcement
  • Modernizing the framework to keep pace with a rapidly evolving e-bike market; and
  • Supporting the safe use of e-bikes as a sustainable transportation option.

MTO is seeking feedback on a proposed updated regulatory framework for e-bikes. Please refer to the attached summary for additional details on the proposal.

We appreciate your input and invite you to submit comments for MTO’s consideration.

A proposal notice has also been posted on the Regulatory Registry.

Supporting materials

View materials in person

Some supporting materials may not be available online. If this is the case, you can request to view the materials in person.

Get in touch with the office listed below to find out if materials are available.

Road Safety Program Development Office
Address

87 Sir William Hearst Avenue, Building A, Room 202
Toronto, ON
M3M 0B4
Canada

Comment

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Contact

MTO ERO

Email address
Office
Environmental Policy Office
Address

438 University Ave
12th Floor
Toronto, ON
M7A 1N3
Canada

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Contact

MTO ERO

Email address
Office
Environmental Policy Office
Address

438 University Ave
12th Floor
Toronto, ON
M7A 1N3
Canada

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