Ireland doubles fees for return of seized scramblers to deter illegal use

Ireland is set to double the fees for owners to reclaim seized scrambler vehicles as part of a broader effort to curb their illegal and dangerous use on roads. The new regulations, signed into law by Minister of State for Road Transport Seán Canney, will take effect on August 14.

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These regulations double the charges for scramblers seized by An Garda Síochána and send a clear message that illegal and dangerous scrambler use carries real consequences.

Under the updated rules, the cost for owners to retrieve a scrambler weighing up to 3,500kg will rise from €125 to €250, with daily storage fees increasing from €35 to €70. For heavier scramblers exceeding 3,500kg, the retrieval fee will double from €250 to €500, and daily storage costs will increase from €50 to €100.

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In recent months we banned the use of scramblers in public places. These increased charges build on that work by ensuring there are real financial consequences where a scrambler is seized by An Garda Síochána.

Minister Canney stated that these increased charges send a clear message about the consequences of illegal scrambler use. "These regulations double the charges for scramblers seized by An Garda Síochána and send a clear message that illegal and dangerous scrambler use carries real consequences," he announced. He emphasized that those whose vehicles are seized should bear the costs of removal and storage, and that the revised fees better reflect these expenses while acting as a stronger deterrent.

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People whose scramblers are detained should bear the cost of removing and storing them.

The government previously banned the use of scramblers in public places, and these new financial penalties build upon that measure. The aim is to support An Garda Síochána in their efforts to maintain safety on Irish roads and in communities. No similar changes are currently planned for e-scooters.

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These revised charges better reflect those costs while providing a stronger deterrent and supporting An Garda Síochána in keeping our roads and communities safe.