.png){kind=small}
As of yesterday, Senate Bill 712 (SB-712) has now taken effect in California. Introduced by Sen. Anthony Portantino and signed by Governor Newsom in October, the bill is some of the most pro-micromobility legislation we’ve seen in the U.S.
The impacts of Senate Bill 712 on micromobility storage stem from the right to e-bike ownership, and will impact their storage for years to come. According to the author, SB 712 “prevents landlords from prohibiting tenants from owning and charging electronic bikes and scooters in apartments”. The bill is great news for e-bike owners, but brings plenty of confusion for property owners and landlords.
With just under half of California residents renting their homes, the new law cements their ability to own and store batteries. From e-bikes to hoverboards, SB-712 logically ensures renters are allowed to bring their devices indoors to store, charge and protect against theft.
While the change stands to positively impact millions of vehicle owners in the state, it will also bring with it many new challenges for landlords, management groups, and insurance companies. Some property managers have shared with us that they find the bill's language unclear, adding further confusion to what good solutions might actually look like. Additionally, micromobility vehicles are still an emerging technology, and rental agreements and insurance policies remain on the back foot in many ways. These groups have a clear vested interest in avoiding damage due to battery fires, so expect them to respond quickly now that this bill has become law.
For landlords, one question they may be asking is what can they do if they want to avoid renters storing batteries within their properties. The law allows for owners to provide “secure, long-term storage” to their tenants. This could be in the from of gated or locked parking areas for the full vehicles, or as outdoor battery storage and charging lockers.
For those living in California and required to comply, the details of the law focus on the quality of the devices:
E-scooters are required to align with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s UL 2272 standard or the EN 17128 European Standard for personal light-electric vehicles.
All e-bikes must conform with either the U.S.’s UL 2849 standard, or the EN 15194 European Standard.
Riders can usually check this information in the fine print of the sticker attached to their battery, or by contacting the manufacturer.
While we write this as observers from across the Atlantic, it’s clear to us that SB-712 signifies the enduring presence of e-bikes and micromobility devices. If you’re a landlord or manage a rental property in California and would like to learn more about how our lockers can help you, you can contact us here.
The full text of the bill can be found on the State's official website.