Minnesota enacts regulations for all-terrain vehicle use on public roads

The Minnesota State Legislature has introduced Senate Bill 1128, aimed at regulating the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on public roads. Introduced on March 24, 2025, the bill seeks to clarify and expand the circumstances under which ATVs can operate on public roadways, particularly in rural areas.

The primary provisions of Senate Bill 1128 include restrictions on ATV operation during nighttime hours and on interstate highways. Specifically, the bill prohibits ATV use on public road rights-of-way between sunset and sunrise, except when traveling on the right-hand side of the road in the same direction as traffic. Additionally, it bans ATV operation on interstate highways and freeways altogether.

Notably, the bill allows local governments—counties, cities, and towns—to enact ordinances permitting ATV use on public roads for accessing businesses and residences, as well as for making trail connections. This provision is particularly significant for municipalities with populations under 25,000, which can authorize ATV use on trunk highways with speed limits of 45 miles per hour or less, provided there are no viable alternative routes.

The introduction of Senate Bill 1128 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and constituents regarding safety, environmental concerns, and the economic benefits of increased ATV access. Proponents argue that the bill will enhance recreational opportunities and support local businesses, while opponents raise concerns about potential safety hazards and the impact on public roadways.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications could be far-reaching, particularly for rural communities that rely on ATVs for transportation and recreation. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, for any ordinances enacted after that date, marking a significant shift in Minnesota's approach to ATV regulation. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's developments as it moves forward.