Public Advisory: Residents Reminded to Adhere to All-Terrain Vehicle Regulations

  • Fisheries and Land Resources

June 26, 2019

Owners, operators and passengers of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are reminded to comply with rules and regulations governing the ownership and use of these vehicles.

In the first five months of 2019, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Officers of the Department of Fisheries and Land Resources laid a total of 69 charges for violations under the Motorized Snow Vehicles and All-Terrain Vehicles Act. In 31 of those cases, the operator or passenger was not wearing a helmet; 10 were operating on a highway; and three were charged for unsafe operation. Other recent violations include operating a vehicle on a highway, driving without care and attention, not having insurance, and not having a registration plate affixed to the vehicle.

Operators are reminded to follow safe practices when operating an ATV:

  • Inspect your vehicle frequently to ensure all required equipment is present and working properly;
  • Always wear a helmet;
  • Never operate while under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
  • Only carry passengers on snowmobiles and ATVs designated for a second person;
  • Operate at safe speeds, especially at night or in unfamiliar or rugged terrain;
  • Carry a first aid/survival kit and a cell phone in case of emergency;
  • Respect the environment when operating off-road vehicles – it is illegal to operate off-road vehicles outside approved areas;
  • Do not drive along public roads and highways.

Some municipalities in Newfoundland and Labrador, most recently the City of Corner Brook, permit some ATV use within municipal boundaries. Before operating on a roadway, check with local enforcement agencies or municipal councils to confirm if use of such vehicles is permitted on municipal roads. For information on the City of Corner Brook’s ATV route, please visit https://bit.ly/2IJdQofexternal link.

The provincial Motorized Snow Vehicles and All-Terrain Vehicles Act and Regulations can be found online:

assembly.nl.ca/legislation/sr/tableregulations/tableofregulations_m20.htm external link.

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Media contact
Linda Skinner
Fisheries and Land Resources
709-637-2284, 632-8167
lindaskinner@gov.nl.ca

2019 06 26 11:40 am