Barcelona

Access to bike-sharing and moped-sharing services is to be linked to their proper use, meaning users may be expelled from the system if they do not comply with regulations. The application period is now open for companies to request operating licences for the city, with regulations set to come into force from 1 January 2020.

Users will have to follow a code of good practice which promotes responsible, sustainable and considerate use. The following conduct may lead to people being prevented from using services further:

• Riding while over the drink-drive limit.
• Riding while under the influence of drugs.
• Reckless or unsafe riding.
• Loan of the vehicle to unregistered users.
• Riding without a vehicle registration certificate.
• Carrying a minor as a pillion passenger infringing current regulations.
• Using the vehicle to commit crimes.

Zero emissions

The period for processing licences is now under way and concludes at the end of the year. Shared moped and bike operators are expected to offer their services within the protection of municipal regulations as from 1 January 2020.

The vehicle licence is obligatory and non-transferable, valid for three years with the option of an additional year. The regulation anticipates a total of 3,975 licences for bicycles and 6,958 for mopeds, up to a maximum of 2,650 and 4,639 licences respectively.

This limit practically allows the existing fleet in Barcelona to double, providing the conditions established by the new regulations are met: they must be sustainable vehicles and must be parked in the places available for them, they must guarantee municipal access to their data, the service has to optimise their distribution between the districts and it is prohibited to lend licences to others.

Fines for infringements

Failure to comply with the conditions for the use of public space may result in fines of 450,76 euros. The City Council will also be able to:

• Confiscate vehicles if they are used after the licence has expired.
• Revoke the licence if the vehicle is not used during a period of over twenty days.
• Revoke the licence if required in the interests of the public.

Organising public space and protecting pedestrians

Shared mobility helps combat pollution, foster the use of bicycles and public transport and promote electric vehicles

The new regulatory framework will help minimise the negative effects, namely road safety and the occupation of public space.