Electric scooter rentals have returned to San Marcos with an initial fleet of 150 vehicles operating across the city.

The service began on September 1 after San Marcos City Council unanimously approved a new dockless scooter program at its August 18 meeting. The city is working with Texas State University and operator Lime under an arrangement that includes profit sharing between Lime and the city.

Scooters are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The operating area covers downtown, the Texas State University campus and neighborhoods east of Interstate 35, including areas around Aquarena Springs and Blanco Gardens.

Where scooters cannot be ridden or parked

Riders must be at least 18 years old, and the city permits only one person on a scooter at a time.

Interstate 35 itself is a no-ride area. San Marcos has also excluded natural areas, including greenbelts and riverfront land, from riding. The area near the San Marcos River is designated as a no-parking zone.

Scooters must not be left within 10 feet of an accessible ramp. That rule is intended to keep pedestrian routes and ramps usable for people with disabilities.

The city's announcement does not set out a fixed price for an ordinary ride. Prospective riders should check the Lime app for the price shown before starting a journey.

Who can apply for discounted rides

Lime Access offers discounted fares to eligible residents. The city says eligibility includes enrollment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Women, Infants and Children, the National School Lunch Program or Medicaid.

People receiving Supplemental Security Income, living in federally, locally or state-subsidized housing, or receiving a Pell Grant can also apply. Applications are available through the city's electric-scooter information page.

How to report a problem

Residents can report badly parked scooters and other concerns through the SMTX Connect service. The city recommends including a photograph when possible so staff can identify the scooter and location.

The previous electric-scooter operator stopped providing service in San Marcos. The new agreement restores a shared scooter option, but availability in a particular street can vary as vehicles are used and redistributed.

Readers can check current operating information, affordability rules and reporting links in the City of San Marcos's official announcement.