ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES ON ROADS – THE BASICS
NORTH BAY, ON – Off-roading is a wonderful way to enjoy some of Ontario’s more remote, hidden treasures. The sport is enjoying exponential growth, and many communities have opened up their roadways to the many smiling, muddy faces that venture north and fill up area motels and restaurants.
Before All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) operators consider taking their machines onto highways, there are a few things they’ll need to understand. Let’s begin with a brief look at Regulation 316-03 to the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario. This regulation allows for the operation of ATVs on highways within the province of Ontario. Regulation 316-03 defines ATVs as those machines having four wheels, steering handlebars, a seat designed to be straddled, and a design for driver only. Though this definition encompasses the majority of machines currently on the market, there are a number of designs which are excluded. Machines designed and intended for two or more persons are excluded and shall not be operated on a highway.
If you intend on riding within the territorial boundaries of a municipality or organized area, you’ll need to ensure that a bylaw has been enacted. In the absence of a bylaw, highways are strictly off-limits. The term highway is broadly defined in the Highway Traffic Act as any area that has been developed for the intended use of vehicles and does include logging roads.
Any person operating an ATV along a highway needs to be a licensed driver and must be able to produce the registration and insurance for their plated ATV. Safety is of paramount importance so we’ll need to be wearing a DOT or SNELL approved helmet and your headlamps will need to be on at all times. Speed limits will need to be observed: 50 km/hr on highways with a speed limit in excess of 50 km/hr and 20km/hr on highways with posted limits not greater than 50 km/hr. Keep off the paved portion of the highway and be mindful of your impact on the immediate environment. You are responsible for any damage your machine might cause to the shoulders and ditches so go easy and remember you are representing a growing number of off-road enthusiasts.
For specifics on highways in your area you’ll need to contact the municipal office and find out what limitations have been imposed under their jurisdiction. Your local police is another source of information and they’ll be able to answer any related questions you might have about the operation of your ATV. The entire body of the regulation can be viewed and downloaded via the internet at www.e-laws.gov.on.ca. Take time to review the schedules of both permitted and prohibited highways. In addition, there are further definitions and exemptions that you should become familiar with.
The members of the OPP SAVE Unit (Snowmobile ATV Vessel Enforcement) encourage you to respect private property and leave the area as you found it. Practice responsible, safe riding practices and be mindful of other persons recreating within the area. The continued acceptance of ATVs upon our trails and highways is dependent upon the diligent behaviour of all riders.
