Adeje approves New Traffic Law to crack down on Electric Scooters
Adeje Town Hall has approved a new traffic and mobility bylaw aimed at improving road safety and regulating the growing use of electric scooters across the municipality.
The measure, backed by all political parties except Unidas Podemos, which abstained, will now go out to public consultation for one month before returning for final approval in May.
Alongside the new rules, the council will launch a public awareness campaign titled “Respeto sobre ruedas” (Respect on Wheels), initially focusing on educating residents and visitors about the safe use of electric scooters.
Councillor for Security and Mobility, Mercedes Vargas Delgado, described the bylaw as a “major shift” in how mobility is managed in Adeje.
“This is not just an update of existing rules,” she said. “It regulates mobility as a whole, adapting to national legislation, improving safety, and aligning with sustainability and accessibility goals.”
Clear rules for e-scooters
For the first time, the bylaw sets out detailed regulations for Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs), including electric scooters.
These vehicles are defined as single-user, electrically powered transport with speeds between 6 and 25 km/h. Under the new rules:
Additional safety measures include a ban on using mobile phones and any kind of ear pods or headphones while riding, and a requirement to wear reflective gear at night or in low visibility.
Parking and enforcement
Strict parking rules will also be introduced. Scooters must be left only in designated areas and must not block pavements or crossings. Locking them to street furniture or charging them in public spaces will be banned.
Failure to comply could result in fines or the vehicle being removed by the Local Police.
Rental companies face tighter controls
The bylaw also targets companies renting out scooters, requiring them to obtain permits and meet strict conditions. These include:
Operators must also provide designated parking solutions and comply with tax and Social Security obligations.
Focus on safety and shared space
According to the council, the new regulations aim to “balance the use of public space,” reduce accidents, and ensure safer coexistence between pedestrians, drivers, and new forms of transport.
The Respect on Wheels campaign will roll out alongside the bylaw to help ensure both residents and tourists understand the changes—particularly the importance of pedestrian priority and responsible riding.
