Essex Police

Published: 25 February 2026

Recently, we have received reports of children riding E‑scooters dangerously, putting both themselves and others at risk of injury. Today, as part of a dedicated operation to intercept and seize these illegal vehicles, we have confiscated several E‑scooters. Two of them are shown below.

Privately owned E‑scooters are illegal to ride on public roads, pavements, or any public space. Because of the vehicle category, they would require insurance, an MOT, tax, and a valid driving licence — all of which are currently impossible to obtain for an E‑scooter.

If you are seen using a privately owned E‑scooter in public, it will be seized and destroyed.

If you are a parent or guardian, please do not purchase these vehicles for children. They are not toys, and using them in public is both illegal and dangerous.

Sergeant Sarah Jeans from the Chelmsford Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

“E‑scooters, along with some modified E‑bikes, are dangerous and illegal. If we see individuals using these in the district, they will be seized and destroyed. The rider will also receive enforcement notices for traffic offences, including riding with no insurance — an offence that carries a substantial fine and six points on a driving licence.”