Mass Ban: Chernivtsi Terminates Contracts with Bolt, Vevi, and Jet.ua
On August 10, 2026, the Chernivtsi City Council made an unprecedented decision — to terminate cooperation memorandums with three leading micromobility service operators: Bolt, Vevi, and Jet.ua. The initiative was supported by 22 deputies, indicating a serious public demand to change the situation regarding urban space. According to the official decision, the companies have exactly 14 days to completely withdraw their vehicles from city streets. This means that by the end of August, there should not be a single rented e-scooter, nor charging stations or related infrastructure, left in Chernivtsi.
Cause of Conflict: Chaos on Sidewalks and Safety Threats
The main catalyst for such a strict decision was the numerous complaints from city residents. Citizens reported en masse about the chaotic parking of scooters, which turns sidewalks into impassable labyrinths, creating a threat to pedestrians, especially people with reduced mobility and parents with strollers. In addition, regular violations of traffic rules by scooter drivers are recorded. Local authorities concluded that the current operating model of operators creates a real danger to the life and health of citizens, making further cooperation impossible without radical changes.
Enforcement Mechanism: Evacuation at the Owner's Expense
The document clearly outlines the consequences in case of ignoring requirements from the business side. If operators fail to dismantle their vehicles within the allotted two weeks, the city's municipal services will begin forced evacuation of the equipment. All vehicles will be transported to special temporary storage sites. It is important to note that all costs for this operation — from evacuation to subsequent storage — will fall on the shoulders of the company owners. This measure is intended not only to clear the streets but also to punish dishonest operators who cannot ensure order.
Trend Towards Tightening: Experience of Odesa and Lviv
The events in Chernivtsi are not an isolated case but reflect a general Ukrainian trend towards strengthening control over micromobility. Previously, authorities in Odesa banned the movement of e-scooters on the famous "Health Route" running along the central beaches to ensure the safety of vacationers. In Lviv, known for its historic center, an additional fine of 100 hryvnias for leaving scooters in prohibited zones was introduced as of July 1, 2026. These measures show that Ukrainian cities are moving from soft regulation to strict restrictions to preserve pedestrian comfort.
