Parents are being warned to think twice by Dyfed-Powys Police before buying electronic scooters for Christmas at the risk of falling foul of the law - concerns that were highlighted recently in Tenby after police were forced to seize such an item due to complaints raised by members of the public over anti-social behaviour.

While an e-scooter may seem a tempting present to buy loved ones this festive season, police are urging parents to consider the potential risks and legal implications, before they fork out hundreds of pounds on what could be a wasted gift.

E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means the rules that apply to motor vehicles, also apply to e-scooters including the need to have a licence and insurance.

Recently, following concerns from members of the public in Tenby about anti-social behaviour caused by e-scooters, Dyfed-Powys Police’s road policing team working with the Tenby Neighbourhood Policing Prevention Team took action by seizing an e-scooter in the seaside town.

E-scooters are illegal when used in a public place and can only be used on private property.

While it is not illegal to buy e-scooters, is an offence to ride them on public roads, pavements, parks and cycle paths.

In the UK, privately owned e-scooters are only legal to use on private land with the landowner’s permission.

Parents could be liable to prosecution if their child is found to be breaking the law. As they are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEV’s), riders could be prosecuted for numerous offences, with consequences including a £300 fine, six penalty points on their driving licence, and the risk of having the e-scooter seized.

Additionally, any driver who has passed their driving test in the last two years and is caught using an e-scooter illegally, could be disqualified from driving and have to retake both the theory and practical driving test.

Sergeant Dave Mallin, of Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We understand that e-scooters may seem like a fun and exciting gift idea, but it’s important to understand the rules and risks that come with them.

“Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements, or cycle paths. Their speed and silence can pose a significant danger to other road users and pedestrian safety, especially vulnerable pedestrians.

“Many people are unaware of the restrictions on e-scooters and while retailers may be happy to sell one to you, it could be seized the moment you attempt to use it in a public place,” he continued.

E-scooter riders also need to be over 16 and hold a full or provisional car/motorbike/moped licence.

While rental e-scooter schemes operate under strict conditions in trial area in some parts of the UK, these schemes are currently not running in the Dyfed-Powys area.

Sgt Mallin added: “Dyfed-Powys Police operates a zero-tolerance approach to e-scooters and we would urge parents to think twice about buying e-scooters as presents this Christmas and consider a more safe and appropriate gift.”