Skip to content

Reminder for ATV, dirt bike riders about respecting rules, private property

South Simcoe Police will be conducting enforcement to ensure riders obey the rules and respect property owners’ right to peace, quiet and privacy
2016-09-23 ATVs
Stock image

NEWS RELEASE
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE
*******************************
South Simcoe Police Service is reminding all terrain vehicle (ATV) and dirt bike riders to do their homework before heading out.

Usage on roadways within Innisfil and Bradford West Gwillimbury varies and riders need to know where they can go, respect private property and be safe.

SSPS receives ongoing reports of riders going on private property and this trespassing needs to stop. Police will be conducting enforcement to ensure riders obey the rules and respect property owners’ right to peace, quiet and privacy.

Riders should know:
    •    ATVs are not permitted on roads in Bradford
    •    ATVs are permitted on town roads in Innisfil but not county roads
    •    Trails in Innisfil are limited to private property. It you don’t have permission you are trespassing

Dirt bikes are not permitted on any of our roadways unless they are properly licensed with a blue and white passenger licence plate. Dirt bikes equipped with a green and white licence plate are not roadworthy.

Anyone operating ATVs on roadways where permitted, must be 16 years of age, have a valid Ontario driver's licence and valid liability insurance. Riders must also wear an approved DOT or equivalent helmet and can only carry the number of riders specified by the vehicle's manufacturer. Aftermarket seats do not permit an increase in the number of riders carried.

It is against the law to drive an off-road vehicle when you are impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.

Always ride sober and obey applicable speed limits. The speed limit for ATVs is 20 km/h where the posted speed limit is 50 km/h, and no more than 50 km/h on roads with a posted speed limit of greater than 50 km/h.

"With the warmer temperatures, we have seen an increase in the use of off-road vehicles in the area between the 5th Line through the 7th Line. We would like community members to take the time to familiarize themselves with the varying by-laws within the municipalities. Safety is our priority, and ensuring that operators and owners of off-road vehicles are aware of the by-laws is the first step. We have seen a large increase in complaints from the community regarding the illegal use of off road vehicles – namely trespassing and speeding. Over the past month countless educational interventions and cautions have been issued. Moving forward expect increased enforcement as the communities' tolerance for these types of offences decreases. ATV enthusiasts are fortunate to have a bylaw permitting use on public roads in Innisfil. This is a privilege, not a right. Sadly the illegal actions of the few lead to consequences for the many. Help us spread the word and do your part.  Know where you go, wear a helmet and watch your speed. Set a good example for others to follow.” - Sgt. Dave Phillips, Traffic and Marine Unit

*******************************