Ontario is renowned for its snowy winters. When the roads turn rough, sometimes residents need a little extra help getting around — and that help can from off-road vehicles. That’s why Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney is working to allow municipalities to permit the use of off-road vehicles in their local area.
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Proposed policy changes
Mulroney is confident in each municipality’s judgment on off-road vehicle usage. “We know that municipalities are in the best position to decide how these types of vehicles can be safely integrated into their communities,” she said.
In order to craft these rules, Mulroney and her team will consult with industry experts, off-road driving enthusiasts, local government officials, and law enforcement.
If Mulroney’s idea sounds like a longshot, keep in mind that other provinces, including Alberta and Manitoba, currently allow local governments to determine off-road vehicle usage. However, regardless of whether Mulroney’s efforts bear fruit, off-road vehicles still won’t be allowed on highways.
Due to this restriction, Arthur Ash, president of the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders, suggests that off-road vehicles be classified as “off-highway vehicles.”
He suggests that increased mobility from these vehicles will encourage more tourism, economic growth, and trail exploration in Ontario.
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Off-road vehicle safety guidelines
Of course, if off-road vehicles become street legal in some parts of Ontario, drivers will still have to follow requirements and safety protocols. Here’s a look at some of the rules and restrictions:
- Drivers must be 16 or older, have a valid G2 or M2 licence and carry their ATV/ORV permit.
- Everyone on board needs to buckle up and wear a motorcycle helmet.
- Drivers need to stay below the speed limit.
- Passengers cannot be under the age of 8 years old. They also need to be able to reach the footrests, if the vehicle has them.
- There are additional passenger restrictions for new and young drivers who hold a minimum G2 or M2 licence.
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