Turtleford, St. Walburg and surrounding area RCMP detachments have been fielding an increased number of complaints about ATV operation.
Detachment personnel have issued a press release outlining some of the laws association with the All-Terrain Vehicles Act.
An ATV, which includes quads, dirt bikes and off-road utility vehicles, is a vehicle designed for off-road use only.
To operate an ATV in any public areas, a person must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver's license. Those who are between the ages of 12 and 15 can operate an ATV in public areas if they are supervised by someone who has a valid driver's license, or who has passed an approved ATV training course. A child under the age of 12 cannot operate an ATV in public areas.
An ATV has restrictions on where it can be operated. They can be operated on Crown land or highway right-of-ways, such as ditches. ATVs cannot be operated on any street, road or highway, or for crossing a bridge, unless it is authorized by the Highway Traffic Board or a local bylaw.
To operate an ATV on private land, riders must first have the permission of the land owner.
It is illegal to operate an ATV while impaired by drugs or alcohol, even when doing so on private land. Also, driving in a manner that is dangerous to the public is illegal. These are criminal offences that can result in criminal charges, seizure of the ATV and the loss a driver's licence.
If a rider is found on public land by police, they must provide proof of insurance. Every rider must wear an approved helmet and appropriate protective riding gear. Every person who authorizes or permits another person to operate an ATV in contravention of any provision of this Act or the regulations; or without complying with any provision of this act or the regulations is guilty of an offence against this act.
The Saskatchewan ATV Act can be accessed at http://www.publications.gov.sk.ca/details.cfm?p=369&cl=5.
