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Officials warn improper ATV/UTV use risks losing trails; enforcement, signage and education planned
Summary
Sheriff and municipal police officials said they are issuing citations for illegal operation of ATVs on state highways, stressing existing prohibitions and noting citation amounts and common violations; agencies plan more signage and outreach with ATV clubs and education efforts in places with heavy recreational use.
Sheriff’s office and municipal police officials told the Traffic Safety Commission that illegal ATV and UTV operation on state and non-permitted roads remains a recurring enforcement problem and risks the county losing trail privileges if violations continue.
The sheriff’s office said that since July 1, 2023, and through the current date it logged nine ATV crashes (primarily single‑unit incidents), 74 related incidents countywide, 16 citations and four OWI arrests tied to off‑road vehicle use. Common citations included OWI, no safety certificate, no helmets, illegal operation on a highway, failure to display required headlamps, missing registration and careless operation. The speaker noted the standard fine for illegal operation on a highway is $232 and emphasized county tolerance for repeat or flagrant violations could prompt trail restrictions.
Municipal police in Menomonie reported focusing early enforcement on warnings and education to acclimate residents to the city’s new UTV ordinance; officers said many violations occur after hours or at events, and several underage operators have been observed in recreational areas. Both sheriff and city representatives said additional signage on or near state highways — and coordination with ATV clubs on map and route information — could help reduce illegal use.
A local driving instructor offered to collaborate with agencies to create short public education videos explaining the distinction between county and state highways, proper use of turn lanes and equipment requirements; law enforcement suggested coordinating with county multimedia staff to distribute materials.
Why it matters: enforcement patterns, fines and public education affect trail access and public safety; agencies advised riders to follow posted restrictions to avoid citations and preserve trail networks.
No formal action was taken; the discussion centered on enforcement metrics, outreach and possible signage improvements.
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