Low-Speed Vehicles not permitted on Thunder Bay roads

August 22, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding members of the public that low-speed vehicles are not allowed on public roads in the city.


A low-speed vehicle is an electric, four-wheel vehicle that is smaller and lighter than a regular car and have a maximum speed of 40 kilometres per hour. These vehicles may have many similar features to a conventional motor vehicle (seat belts, a steering wheel, pedals and speedometer), but they have fewer safety features and do not meet the same safety standards.


These may be marketed as mobility devices, but they are legislated as vehicles that are subject to Highway Traffic Act rules of the road. Electric enclosed mobility scooters that have a lower maximum speed are considered pedestrians under the Highway Traffic Act and are not to be operated on roadways as a vehicle, instead they are to use sidewalks, multi-use trails, or travel on the road shoulder against oncoming traffic.


In Ontario, low-speed vehicles are legislated through a 10-year pilot program that began in 2017 and requires municipalities to have implemented bylaws allowing their use on public roadways or sidewalks. As The City of Thunder Bay does not currently have such bylaws, these vehicles are not legal for use within Thunder Bay.


Violations can result in Highway Traffic Act charges, fines, and driving suspensions or prohibitions.

Update: Thunder Bay Police Service Toy Drive delivers 13 full vehicles of toys, books, games, and more to families displaced by forest fires

July 21, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) congratulate the community for supporting a toy drive for children and families displaced by wildfires across the region. Thanks to the generosity of residents, families, local businesses and TBPS members, the Service has now delivered 13 fully packed vehicles of toys, books, games and comfort items to evacuees. These donations will help bring moments of joy to children and families experiencing significant disruption and uncertainty. “The kindness demonstrated by the people of Thunder Bay has been extraordinary,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “These contributions reflect a community that consistently steps forward to support others during difficult times.” In addition to individual donations, multiple local businesses made meaningful contributions. Local Tim Hortons locations, Tbaytel and Best Buy provided substantial support, and Gold X2 assisted with loading and delivering the donated items . The Thunder Bay Police Service extends its sincere appreciation to every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort. Your support has made a significant difference for families affected by the wildfires.

Major Crime Unit investigation leads to second degree murder charges

July 20, 2026
TB26028209 A Thunder Bay Police Service Major Crime Unit investigation has resulted in second-degree murder charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to a call for service regarding an assault in the Cumming Street area on the evening of July 18, 2026, around 11:00 PM. On scene a deceased individual was located. Further investigation led to two suspects being identified and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 29-year-old Steven RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay and 61-year-old Warnock RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay have both been charged with Second Degree Murder. Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance. 

Thunder Bay Police Service Toy Drive now closed

July 20, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is once again expressing sincere gratitude to the community after a second surge of toy donations for children and families displaced by wildfires. Following the initial drop-off, residents, families, and TBPS members continued to bring in toys, games and books. The volume of items received over the past couple of days has grown substantially, exceeding expectations and TBPS is no longer accepting additional donations. The continued generosity shown by the people of Thunder Bay has been remarkable. These contributions will help bring comfort and moments of joy to families experiencing disruption and uncertainty. The Thunder Bay Police Service thanks every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort.