The UK was the first to ban public use of the two-wheeled, self-balancing scooter and now New York City is taking a stand.
Under current New York State Law’s Article 14, NY Vehicle and Traffic Law sections 401-a and 401-b, hoverboards have technically always been illegal. Although they don’t have handlebars nor exceed 15mph, they’re still categorized as motorized scooters.
In a statement to the New York Daily News a NYPD spokeswoman confirmed the ban, stating “hoverboards are prohibited since they’re considered motor vehicles that cannot be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles.”
The ban includes the use of hoverboards on streets, highways, sidewalks and even parking lots. Feel like violating the ban? Get ready to face a fine of up to $500.
Wiz Khalifa handcuffed in airport for riding a hoverboard.
Even if your city hasn’t banned the use of hoverboards, many businesses and institutions have decided to be “hover free.” Just ask Wiz Khalifa, who in August of this year was put in handcuffs at LAX after refusing to get off his board.
