Williams Lake RCMP reminds off-road drivers of rules

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The RCMP also highlighted several areas where ORVs cannot be operated:

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• On public roads, streets or highways, which includes trails and sidewalks, except in limited circumstances such as:
  • Crossing a road at a 90‑degree angle where it is safe and permitted.
  • Short incidental access on roads only where authorized by signage or local bylaws.
• Municipal bylaws and land‑use rules may further restrict where off‑road vehicles can be used.

“Operating an ATV, dirt bike or side‑by‑side in prohibited areas, without registration, or without required safety equipment may result in fines, vehicle impoundment or seizure, or charges under the Off‑Road Vehicle Act or other applicable legislation,” said Williams Lake RCMP.

All ORVs used on Crown or prescribed private land must be registered with the ICBC, with a valid plate or sticker displayed. Operators must also carry proof of registration while riding.

Police officials said helmets are mandatory for all passengers, regardless of age while riding on ATVs, dirt bikes/motorcycles and snowmobiles.

Seatbelts must also be worn at all times in side‑by‑sides and other ORVs equipped with seatbelts and drivers must ensure passengers are properly seated and restrained.

Williams Lake RCMP officials said children under 16 must be under direct adult supervision unless they meet the legal requirements to operate independently:

• Fourteen- and fifteen-year-olds may be permitted to operate certain off-road vehicles without direct supervision if:
  • They have completed an approved training course for the vehicle class.
  • They have written permission from a parent or guardian for unsupervised riding.
• Children under 16 are not permitted to carry passengers.

“Public streets are no place for off-road vehicles,” said Williams Lake RCMP spokesperson Staff Sergeant Brad McKinnon.

“We encourage operators to know and abide by the rules to keep everyone safe this summer season.”