Scrambler ban to come into place Friday

New regulations are set to come into effect from Friday, involving an explicit ban on scrambler use in any public place, as announced by Government Ministers today (April 1).

The measures were announced by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, Minister of State Seán Canney, and Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer.

Using a scrambler in any public place will be an offence, regardless of whether or not it is being driven dangerously.

Specifically, the new regulations will make it illegal to drive a scrambler or quadbikes on anything other than private land.

Minister Darragh O’Brien said: “These regulations complete the introduction of provisions in the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 to tackle the dangerous use of scramblers.

“The regulations will ensure that Gardai have the full enforcement powers to remove the use of scramblers in public places and protect the safety of all road users.

“To honour the memory of Grace Lynch. And with the permission of her family, together these provisions applied to the scrambler will be known as Grace’s Law.”

Minister Canney added: “We have introduced these new regulations to strengthen current restrictions and address the inappropriate use of scramblers in public places.

“Road safety is a top priority for me, my Department and the Government. These regulations will further protect the road safety of all road users and bring assurance to communities who have been affected by their dangerous use.”

The new Road Traffic (Control of Certain Vehicles) Regulations 2026 aims to bring legal clarity to current provisons regarding scramblers and quadbikes, making sure that the appropriate off-road use of them is for licensed sport and agricultural purposes.