The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) recently announced that the Canadian province is enhancing on-road access for more types of off-road vehicles (ORVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) while increasing safety requirements for riders.
Beginning July 1, Ontario will implement the following changes to ensure that ORV and ATV riders safely reach their destination:
- More types of ORVs and ATVs, including two-up ATVs, side-by-side ATVs and utility-terrain vehicles (UTVs), will be allowed to use the shoulder of public roads. Previously, only single-rider ATV’s could operate along certain provincial and municipal highways. Drivers operating a permitted ORV along a road or highway must hold at least a G2 or M2 driver’s license, and their vehicle must be registered and insured.
- All riders -- including drivers and passengers of all ages -- will be required to wear a helmet and use a seat belt or footrests, if applicable.
The province is promoting the new rules in the month of June to ensure that municipalities have enough time to make necessary amendments to their bylaws, and to remind riders and drivers about the change.
Ontario is also allowing an "education period" to take place between July 1 and Sept. 1. During this period, no violation tickets will be issued, but police officers may still charge violators through a summons.
The province consulted with a wide array of trail, municipal, industry, enforcement, as well as health and safety stakeholders to ensure the rules strike the right balance.
“Our government recognizes the importance of a vibrant, sustainable and safe power sports sector in Ontario," said Steven Del Duca, the Minister of Transportation. "We support providing Ontarians with more options to safely explore our vast province."
Ontario is home to thousands of miles of recreational trails, making it a popular destination for riders from across Canada and the world.