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The Province is developing an Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Management Framework
that will encourage safe and responsible ORV riding and support a growing
industry that has the opportunity to deliver lasting socioeconomic benefits to
rural communities.
The framework is being implemented in phases starting on January 1, 2012.
Snowmobile and snow vehicle operators will no longer need to obtain a
police-issued operation permit if making a direct crossing across a highway
where there is a stop sign or traffic control signal. All other Motor Vehicle
Act requirements on highways have not changed. When in doubt, ORV operators
should contact local law enforcement to inquire about whether an operation
permit is required.
The Province is also considering legislative changes to the Motor Vehicle (All Terrain)
Act around areas of compliance and enforcement based on feedback from our stakeholder associations.
Efforts to fully implement the ORV Management Framework are ongoing.
The framework includes:
- Enhanced safety measures should result in fewer deaths or serious injuries,
especially among youth.
- Improved tools to help compliance and enforcement officials identify
irresponsible ORV riders and track stolen vehicles.
- Opening up the Province by connecting our rural communities and contributing
to a world-class trails system through the designation of numerous ORV public
road crossings.
- Environmentally-friendly muffler standards will reduce noise disturbance to
wildlife and recreationists; spark arrestors will reduce the risk of forest
fires.
- Reasonable costs that will be based on a user-pay approach and comparable to
other small vehicles.
Press Releases:
Media Contacts:
Public Affairs Bureau:
Brennan Clarke, 250 356-5261
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operation
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