In Alberta, an off-highway vehicle (OHV) is defined in the Traffic Safety Act as any motorized mode of transportation built for cross-country travel on land, water, snow, ice or marsh or swamp land or on other natural terrain, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes, when specifically designed for such travel.
OHV Helmet Law
In an effort to enhance off-highway vehicle (OHV) safety, the Government of Alberta has amended the Traffic Safety Act to include a new OHV Helmet Law. This means that helmets are now mandatory for those riding OHVs on public land.
OHVs include any motorized vehicle built for cross-country travel on land, ice, and snow. Common types of OHV are all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), snowmobiles, dirt bikes, utility terrain vehicles, and side-by-sides.
CONTACT A PEACE OFFICER
| peaceofficer (@) mdlsr.ca | |
| Phone | 780.849.4888 |
| Toll-Free | 1.866.449.4888 |
| Fax | 780.849.4939 |
Helmets are
A MUST IN THE MD
In an effort to enhance off-highway vehicle (OHV) safety, the Government of Alberta has amended the Traffic Safety Act to include a new OHV Helmet Law. This means that helmets are now mandatory for those riding OHVs on public land.
Rules are in place for a reason.
OBEY POSTED SIGNS, ADHERE TO BYLAWS AND PRACTICE BASIC COMMON SENSE WHEN RIDING AN OTV.
PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE INCLUDE FINES AND/OR IMPRISONMENT.
1
Where you Can't Go
No riding within any “Open Space” areas. This includes parks, day-use sites, campgrounds, playgrounds, trails, vacant land and environmental reserves.
2
Where you Can Go
You can ride your OHV on a highway (roadway), or in an area set aside and clearly marked as a designated trail or area for OHV use. That’s it.
3
Helmets are a Must
The Traffic Safety Act includes an OHV Helmet Law. This means that helmets are mandatory for those riding OHVs on public land, unless otherwise exempt.
Off-Road Etiquette
Before you take to the trails, familiarize yourself with a few commonsense local rules, regulations and behaviours that will allow you to enjoy riding your OHV in the MD while keeping yourself and others safe on the trail.
Respect Private Property
Ask permission before using a trail or field. Land owners may have given specific groups permission to use their land, or there may be rules they ask you abide by on their land such as opening and shutting gates. Even if you have asked permission before, it's a good idea to check again if something changes (a gate has been put up, a no trespassing sign, or anything blocking trail entrances). Always leave the trail as you found it.
Yield to Other Trail Users
Watch for Animals
Yield to Hikers
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Check the Weather and Dress Appropriately
Provincial Crown Land Recreation Guidelines
Click Here to view Alberta's guide to outdoor recreation on crown land.
