By Adam Woodward
Since new local bylaws regulating personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), such as e-scooters, were introduced in February, 2024, Marbella Local Police have issued just 47 fines for breaches of the rules over a 16 month period, an average of one every 10 days.
The figure is strikingly low, and causing complaints given the frequent observation of dozens of daily infractions by e-scooter users across Marbella.
Over the past year and a half, the police conducted two PMV-focused campaigns, carrying out 26 stop-and-checks and inspecting 177 vehicles, resulting in the 47 fines for breaches of the municipal rules. In comparison, 2023 saw 116 fines handed out, with three special campaigns, 55 static checkpoints, and 283 vehicles (including e-scooters and bicycles) inspected. In 2022, only 19 fines were issued, averaging slightly more than one per month.
Marbella council has stressed education over punishment. Jos茅 Eduardo D铆az, the Councillor for Public Safety, told local media, 鈥淥ur guideline is to issue fines only when there鈥檚 clear danger, focusing instead on informing and educating PMV users about the rules, as we鈥檝e noticed significant ignorance of the regulations, especially among foreign riders.鈥
New summer rules for e-scooters and bikes in Marbella
The council recently issued a municipal decree limiting the use of e-scooters, bicycles, and other PMVs on certain sections of Marbella鈥檚 promenade from July 1 to September 30. The decree orders that PMVs prioritise pedestrians, give way at all times, maintain a maximum speed of 10 km/h, and travel on the right side of the path. Zigzagging or reckless riding is strictly prohibited.
Despite the pedestrian-priority rule, no dedicated police unit is enforcing these restrictions. The council said that its Mobility Unit oversees PMV compliance along with other duties, such as monitoring public transport, VTCs (ride-hailing services), and heavy vehicles.
The local bylaws outline strict rules for PMVs:
They are for single-person use, prohibiting passengers, animals, or objects that hinder safe operation.
PMVs must travel on the road, not pavements, and follow general traffic rules.
Tying PMVs to trees, traffic lights, benches, or other urban furniture is banned, as is parking in loading zones, public service areas, spaces reserved for people with reduced mobility, or emergency exits.
Helmets are compulsory.
The minimum age for riding a PMV is 14.
Civil liability insurance is required.
Using headphones, earbuds, or mobile phones while riding is prohibited.
As Marbella navigates the balance between enforcement and education, the low fine rate suggests a lenient approach, even as the city tightens rules for the busy summer season.