Shared Active Transportation Systems (SATS)

SHARED ELECTRIC SCOOTERS AND BIKES IN DURHAM

E-Scooter and E-Bike Companies

E-scooter and E-bike companies are responsible for operations, maintenance, deployment, rebalancing, and encouraging the safe operation of their devices. Visit each operator’s website for more information about their vehicles, safety measures, opportunities for discounted rates, and access to vehicles without a smartphone.

• Bird (Silver)
  • Contact Bird by phone at 1-866-205-2442, on Bird's website, or Bird's support email
  • Bird's Beginner's Guide to Scooter Riding
  • Community Mode - info on user reporting on parking, damaged vehicles, etc.
• Spin (Orange)
  • Contact Spin by phone at 888-249-9698, on Spin's website, or Spin's support email
  • Spin Safe - online safety and rider education quiz

Discount Rates and How to Rent Without a Smartphone

• Bird - Bird Access Program 
• Spin - Spin Access Program

Problems with Vehicles

If you see an e-bike or e-scooter that is damaged, parked improperly, tipped over, or in the way of the street or sidewalk, you should directly report the issue to the relevant  company (see information above), either by support phone line or email. Per Durham’s ordinance, you should expect a resolution within two hours of sending them direct notice.

If you see a company not complying with Durham’s ordinance or not responding to service requests, contact City Staff at [email protected] so that someone can notify them on your behalf.

COVID-19 Temporary Protocol

Under Durham’s temporary Safer-at-Home Order, active companies will be required to provide the City and customers with sanitation protocols for customers and employees related to COVID-19. All active companies have been approved and will operate for essential trips for the time being. 

• Bird’s sanitation protocols

Permit Applications and other SATS Projects

The window is now closed for new applications for companies interested in operating in Durham, along with renewal applications for existing permittees. Interested companies used the resources to the right (Current Ordinance and Fee Structure, new/renewal application, and indemnification form) to apply. Applicants had the ability to request and/or receive permits for e-scooters, electric-assist bicycles, and dockless bicycles.

Note that completing a SATS application does not guarantee a SATS permit. The City reserves the right to deny any permit request(s) based on insufficient information, unsatisfactory answers to application questions, lack of compliance with the ordinance and permit requirements (if applicable), and to ensure the integrity of the city’s transportation system and protect the health, safety, and welfare of Durham residents.

As the SATS program continues, the City wants to work with existing and potential permittees in further developing the program, educating the public on safety and proper scooter riding, and providing protected marked parking for vehicles.

Other SATS Links

• SATS Program History
• More About Electric Bikes and Scooters
• Frequently Asked Questions

Bull City Today Archive

June 20, 2019 - New Scooter Program 

November 15, 2019 - Scooter Survey

February 5, 2020 - New regulations for Shared Active Transportation

Contact Us

Any questions about the SATS program can be directed to Emma Vinella-Brusher, at 919-560-4366, ext. 36467, or by email.