Utah Laws For ATV Riders

Laws are meant to be followed, and the same goes with the ATV riders, whether riding an ATV in the street or over unimproved terrain. Considering the importance of law enforcement, this article is a guide to ATV Riders who take their off-road excursions seriously.

Utah off-roading state laws tend to be implied by the ATV riders, and there are some defined terms to promote a better understanding of setting up the law for ATV Riders.

Following the Utah ATV Laws, prepare to make your ATV rides safe and untroubled. Pack your essentials in your riding backpack to make your rides adventurous and tranquil.

What is the definition of an ATV in Utah?

Utah splits ATVs into Type 1 ATVs and Type 2 ATVs. According to Utah ATV law, a Type 1 ATV is defined as any motorcycle capable of traveling over unimproved terrain.

Recommendation: 52 inches or less in width, weighs 1500 pounds or less, contains three or more low-pressure tires, and has a seat designed to be straddled by the rider or operator.

A Type 2 ATV is defined in Utah as any vehicle that bears no resemblance to a Type 1 ATV, snowmobile, or motorbike and is intended for use on unimproved terrain. So, a Type 2 ATV encompasses a UTV.

Are You Required to Register Your ATV in Utah?

Registration is necessary if you operate your ATV or UTV on any public land, trail, street, or highway in Utah.

Here are some of the requirements to register your ATV in Utah

• Evidence of ownership, manufacturer’s certificate of origin, or a title.
• A serial number is a bill of sale showing ownership, model, make, and horsepower displacement.
• A certification from the country assessor states that the current year’s property tax on the ATV has been paid. The tax is a claim on real property, or the ATV/UTV does not count in the payment of property tax for the current year. Although it is not required if the ATV has an implementation of a husbandry sticker).
• A duplicate or copy of the past registration card is required.

The registration sticker must be affixed to the rear of your ATV/UTV in a visible position. It must be maintained free of foreign materials and completely legible.

The registration card must be kept with the ATV or UTV and be available for inspection by a law enforcement officer.

Following are the Vehicles exempt from OHV registration

• Currently registered street-legal vehicles.
• Non-resident ATVs are displaying a current off-highway decal.
• A dealer sells ATVs and UTVs to a non-resident.
• ATVs and UTVs are used as implements of husbandry and
• New ATVs and UTVs were transported to a dealer.

Non-resident-owned ATVs must be issued a decal displayed on the rear left side of the plastic body. The validity duration of a non-resident decal is 12 months. The decal is unnecessary for non-residents of states granting reciprocity with Utah.

Whether you do not intend to use your ATV or UTV entertainingly but only for agriculture purposes, you may obtain a one-time $10 registration as an implementation of husbandry.

What are the ATV Law Requirements for Youth in Utah?

Youth ages 8-15 are permitted to ride an ATV in Utah only if they possess an OHV education certificate issued by the Utah State Parks and Recreation or the equivalent for a non-resident.

The certificate is obtained from the official site of Utah State Parks.

Riders aged 16 years or older must have an Educate Certificate unless they possess a valid driver’s License.

Riders under 8 may only operate an ATV if they are participating in a sanctioned race or organized practice under the direct supervision of a mature rider or adult with the availability of emergency medical service personnel on-site.

Direct supervision, as required, means oversight at a distance of no more than 300 feet, with visual contact, and where advice and assistance can be given conveniently.

Wearing a helmet is a must for riders under 18. Always invest in good riding gear to ensure your safety is firm.

What is Riding Equipment Required in Utah?

• You must use a red or orange whip flag if you’re riding an ATV or UTV across the dunes. Ensure that the whipping flag is at least 8 feet above the ground. You can affix a safety flag to your helmet at least 18 inches over your head.
• If you’re riding an ATV or UTV between the hours of sunset and sunrise, you’ll need lights.
• ATVs and UTVs must be equipped with working brakes.
• A muffler is required on all ATVs and UTVs.
• A spark arrestor is required on any ATV or UTV.

Places Where You Can Operate an ATV in Utah

Public lands, trails, streets, or highways are the places in Utah to operate registered off-highway ATVs and UTVs. Make sure the posts by sign and designation by map or description are open for off-highway vehicle use.

Utah’s most popular ATV riding areas include Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Paiute ATV Trail, and Little Sahara Recreation Area. However, many federal lands are open to riding in Utah as well.

Restricted Unlawful Acts in Utah

• To ride an ATV under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
• To ride an ATV in connection with any act of vandalism.
• To ride an ATV in connection with the harassment of wildlife or domestic animals.
• To ride an ATV in such a manner as to damage the environment by excessive air, land, or water pollution or causing damage to the watershed or animals.
• To ride an ATV in such a manner creates excessive noise.

This page’s laws and regulations are intended to be a quick reference for ATV riders. Before hitting the trails, be sure you’re current on any ATV legislation.

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