Scottsdale initially issued a cease-and-desist letter before working out an agreement with the company, while Tempe took a more hands-off approach.

With a top speed of 15 mph, Tucson officials are concerned that the e-scooters — which resemble Razor kick scooters often used by children but with an electric motor — could pose a safety hazard for pedestrians and riders.

The e-scooters are treated differently under the law than battery-powered electric bikes, which are nearly identical to traditional bicycles.

Roi Lusk, an assistant city attorney, said the city classifies the devices as a “motorized play vehicle” rather than a form of transportation.

City officials hint that they may be willing to back changes in city laws to legalize their use, but only if companies like Bird are willing to enter into an agreement outlining some of their business practices.

Mackenzie Long, a spokeswoman for Bird, did not respond to a request for comment.

Councilman Steve Kozachik said he has a number of concerns about Bird.