Off-Road Vehicle Safety

What is an off-road vehicle?

An off-road vehicle is any motor vehicle created or changed for off-road use.

These include: all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), snowmobiles, utility vehicles, side-by-sides, dune buggies, dirt bikes and other vehicles which can travel on land and on or under water.

What do you need to know about the age requirements and supervision in this province?

• Under the age of 16, you must not drive an off-road vehicle with an engine size that goes beyond the maker’s recommendation for a driver’s age and weight.
• Under the age of 16, you must be supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 18 years of age.
• The supervisor must be able to see the driver, be seen by the driver, and always give immediate directions to the driver.
• The supervisor must make certain the driver uses the required safety equipment.

What do you need to know about safety features and equipment?

• Helmets are required for all off-road vehicles and in all areas of the province.
• Helmets must meet the safety standards, be properly fitted, and the fastening device secured. The only allowance where helmets are not needed is for hunting and trapping activities, involving many stops, where speed is less than 20 km/hr.
• Seatbelts must be worn in any off-road vehicle where they have been put in by the manufacturer.
• Chains are allowed on tires of an off-road vehicle.
• You must not drive a mini-bike, dirt bike, or trail bike unless you are able to keep both feet on the pedals or foot rests.
• You must not drive a side-by-side unless you are able to sit with your seatbelt fastened and both feet flat on the floor.

For more information, you can check out the Off-Road Vehicles Act and the Off-Road Vehicles Regulations.