Police are reminding residents and visitors that off-road vehicles (ORVs) are regulated in BC, and improper use can result in fines, vehicle impoundment or seizure, and serious or even fatal injuries.
At the beginning of every riding season, the Williams Lake RCMP see an increase in ORV activity in the area and want to ensure that operators are lawful and safe.
Where you can ride:
- On Crown land where use is permitted
- On private property with the landowner’s permission
- On designated trails, recreation sites, or areas where motorized use is allowed
Where you can’t ride:
- On public roads, streets, or highways, which includes trails and sidewalks, except in very limited circumstances such as:
- Crossing a road at a 90‑degree angle where it is safe and permitted
- Short incidental access on roads only where authorized by signage or local bylaws
- Municipal bylaws and land‑use rules may further restrict where off‑road vehicles can be used.
Registration
All ORVs used on Crown land or prescribed private land must be registered with ICBC and display a valid number plate or sticker. Operators must carry proof of registration while riding.
Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for all drivers and passengers, regardless of age while riding or driving on:
- ATVs
- Dirt bikes / off‑road motorcycles
- Snowmobiles
- Helmets must also be approved safety helmets and properly fastened
Seatbelts
Seatbelts must be worn at all times in side‑by‑sides and other ORVs equipped with seatbelts
- Operators must ensure all passengers are properly seated and restrained
Children under 16
Children under 16 must be under direct adult supervision unless they meet the legal requirements to operate independently.
- Fourteen- and fifteen-year-olds may be permitted to operate certain off-road vehicles without direct supervision if:
- They have completed an approved training course for the vehicle class; and
- They have written permission from a parent or guardian for unsupervised riding
- Children under 16 are not permitted to carry passengers
Operating an ATV, dirt bike or side‑by‑side in prohibited areas, without registration, or without required safety equipment may result in fines, vehicle impoundment or seizure, or charges under the Off‑Road Vehicle Act or other applicable legislation.
“Public streets are no place for off-road vehicles,” said Staff Sergeant Brad McKinnon of the Williams Lake RCMP. “We encourage operators to know and abide by the rules to keep everyone safe this summer season.”
