New regulatory bill january 2026 for ownership of non-compliant PMD

new regulations about LTA non compliant electric scooter, PABs (Power-Assisted Bicycles), and PMAs (Personal Mobility Aids) devices ownership

New regulations from the Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore, particularly with the introduction of the Land Transport and Related Matters Bill on January 12, 2026, significantly tighten rules regarding the ownership and possession of non-compliant active mobility devices. Key updates regarding non-compliant device ownership and regulations include: 1. Illegal to Keep Non-Compliant Devices Expand

From mid-2026, it will be an offence to even possess (keep) e-scooters that do not meet fire safety standards (specifically UL2272), regardless of whether they are used. Previously, the ban only applied to riding them on public paths, but the new rule extends the prohibition to ownership. 

Ref: 87 New Part 8A

The new law makes it an offence to keep an unsafe device if you know it’s unsafe or you’re reckless about it. If caught, individuals can be fined up to $2,000 or jailed up to 3 months – with higher penalties for repeat offenders. Companies face higher fines too.

The law also assumes you’re the one keeping the device if:

• you’re the registered owner, or
• the device is in your possession, or
• it’s found on your premises (unless it’s a public/common area).

These presumptions apply unless you can prove otherwise.

2. Stricter Penalties for Possession and Use Expand

• Non-compliant Devices (PMDs/PABs): Users of non-UL2272/non-compliant devices can face fines up to $10,000 and/or 6 months in jail for a first offence.
• Unregistered Devices: Riding an unregistered e-scooter on public paths can lead to fines up to $2,000 and/or 3 months in jail.
• Illegally Modified Devices: First-time offenders for illegal modification (e.g., increased speed, third-party batteries) face fines up to $5,000 and/or 3 months in jail.
• Repeat Offenders: Fines can double for subsequent offences. 

3. Measures Targeting Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) Expand

• New Definition: Motorised PMAs (mobility scooters/wheelchairs) are being re-regulated as “Mobility Vehicles”.
• Stricter Standards: PMAs used on public paths will have size limits and speed limits reduced to 6 km/h (down from 10 km/h).
• Registration & Medical Need: Mandatory registration for mobility scooters is being introduced, and a “Certificate of Medical Need” will be required to use them on public paths.
• PMA Lookalikes: Devices that look like PMAs but have multiple seats or do not meet safety standards will be reclassified as non-compliant PMDs and, if not UL2272 certified, will be impounded. 

4. Enforcement Actions Expand

• Impounding: LTA is empowered to impound non-compliant devices (PABs and PMDs) from any location, including HDB common areas.
• Active Surveillance: Over 900 non-compliant devices were seized between January and October 2025.
• Retailer Liability: Stricter laws now extend to those who sell or facilitate the modification of devices, with potential fines up to $20,000 and jail terms of up to 2 years for illegal modifications. 

5. Transition and Compliance Expand

• Delay in Implementation: The amendments for PMAs and the new regulations are slated for implementation in mid-2026 to allow users to adjust, rather than early 2026.
• Safe Disposal: Non-compliant devices should be disposed of at authorized e-waste recyclers. 

Note: The new regulations apply to e-scooters, PABs (Power-Assisted Bicycles), and PMAs (Personal Mobility Aids) that fail to meet safety, weight, width, and speed standards.