Vehicle Laws and Rules (Courtesy of Dixie National Forest)

  • All off-highway vehicles operated or transported on public land, roads, or trails must be currently
    registered.
  • Off-highway vehicle operators and passengers under 18 years of age must wear properly fitted,
    safety-rated helmets.
  • All operators 8 through 15 years old must possess an off-highway vehicle certificate issued by the
    Utah Department of Parks and Recreation.
  • Operators under 8 years of age cannot operate off-highway vehicles on public land.
  • No person shall operate an off-highway vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • For further information regarding Utah off-highway vehicle laws and rules, contact the Utah Division
    of Parks and Recreation: 1-800-648-7433, or check the websites at the following links.
Bryce Canyon ATV

Definitions of Vehicles

All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) is a motor vehicle 50 inches or less in width, having an unladen dry weight of 800 pounds or less, traveling on three or more low pressure tires, having a seat designed to be straddled by the operator, and designed for or capable of travel over unimproved terrain.

Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) is a motor vehicle, other than an ATV, designed for or capable of travel overunimproved terrain. This term does not include golf carts, any vehicle designed to carry a disabled person, any vehicle not specifially designed for recreational use, or farm tractors. “Motorcycle” means every motor vehicle having a saddle for the use of the operator and designed to travel on not more than two tires.

Utility All-Terrain Vehicle (UTV) is made for work and play. The machines usually seat two people. Examples are the Polaris Ranger, Yamaha Rhino, and Arctic Cat Prowler.