WESTLOCK COUNTY ENFORCEMENT SERVICES
Re: OHV Operation and Trespassing
To enhance off-highway vehicle (OHV) safety and to address recent concerns, Westlock County Enforcement Services is reminding persons operating OHVs within the County to do so in a safe and respectful manner. OHVs include any motorized vehicle built for cross-country travel on land, ice, and snow. Common types of OHVs are all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), snowmobiles, dirt bikes, utility terrain vehicles and side-by-sides.
If your household or someone you know is operating an OHV, please be aware that there are specific rules and regulations (Bylaws and Provincial Laws) that govern OHV use on roadways and private property.
- OHV operation is allowed on County roads; however, when leaving a hamlet, the most direct route must be taken to the trailhead or field being accessed.
- OHV operation within a hamlet is not allowed and a maximum speed limit of 20 km/h is required when exiting or entering to/from the hamlet. Once on a County road outside the hamlet, a maximum speed of 40 km/h must be observed.
- OHV operation on all County roads and while exiting/entering hamlets is restricted to 7:00 am until 11:00 pm.
- When traveling on roadways, the operator must stay close to the right edge of the road and travel in the same direction as vehicle traffic; all rules of the road must be observed.
- Ensure all equipment is operational—especially headlights, brake, and signal lights. The operator must wear a helmet that meets DOT safety requirements and must have a minimum of a class 7 operator license to operate on a County road.
While operating an OHV on County roads to access a trail head or field, traveling at high speeds, cutting sharp turns on the roadway can be considered stunting. This type of activity is not only a danger to the operator, but it also puts other motorists utilizing the roadway at risk. If accessing private property, you must have prior permission from the land/property owner. If you don’t, the activity is considered trespassing and is a chargeable offence. Please remember, any OHV operating on a highway must be insured, registered, and display a valid licence plate associated to the OHV being operated. Charges that may be applicable are but not limited to:
- Stunting – $567.00
- Careless operation – $567.00
- Drive uninsured OHV – $324.00
- Drive unregistered OHV – $162.00
- Permit another to drive an OHV contrary to the Act – $324.00
- Exceed max speed limit on municipal Hwy – $75.00
- Operating OHV contrary to travel restrictions – $50.00
- Exceed max speed limit in a hamlet or County Residential district – $50.00
- Trespassing – $600.00 – mandatory court for subsequent offences
- Fail to stop for Peace Officer (OHV) – $243.00
Please be aware that charges can be issued to a parent and/or guardian, as well as the operator, which can result in significant monetary amounts. In addition to fines, the OHV can be seized and held until disposition is determined. This again can add up to significant impound and storage fees. Please also be aware that some of the above conditions set out pertain specifically to Westlock County. If accessing an adjoining county from Westlock, ensure you are aware of that county’s OHV rules and regulations.
This is a reminder to use the roadways sensibly, to ensure safe OHV operation by exercising responsible riding practices, and to ensure the OHV is properly registered and insured. In addition, please note County roadways are regularly patrolled by Peace Officers and RCMP.
