Buffalo Common Council adopts ordinance to prohibit sale of ATVs within city

The Buffalo Common Council adopted legislation on June 16 that prohibits the sale of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) within city limits.

Sponsors said the ordinance builds on prior steps — higher fines, stricter seizure and storage rules, and requirements that owners prove title before vehicles are released — and is intended to address persistent safety issues. One sponsor said, “All terrain vehicles are a threat to public safety,” and described instances of large groups riding on streets and sidewalks.

Council members who supported the measure described repeated incidents on major corridors and waterfront areas and said confiscation and fee structures had not fully stopped the problem. Several members said the measure may not completely eliminate illegal riding but will add a tool to reduce the local market for these vehicles and the businesses that retrofitted or sold them in the city.

Council Member O'Hara seconded the motion. Multiple council members, including Rivera and others, asked to be added as co-sponsors. The ordinance was adopted at the meeting; enforcement details and next steps for city departments will be handled through legislation and administrative guidance.