New ATV rules took effect March 1, 2006
MADISON – New rules aimed at assuring All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) in Wisconsin are complying with laws limiting excessive noise and clarifying when nonresident operators need ATV trail passes went into effect March 1.
One new rule provides law enforcement with a field-friendly stationary test procedure for testing an ATV’s compliance with a noise limit that was established in 2003. That law makes it illegal for a person to manufacture, sell, rent or operate an ATV that emits noise in excess of 96 decibels.
“Some aftermarket exhaust systems on ATVs can create excessive or unusual noise and are illegal. That noise generates complaints from the public, closes trails and creates a bad image for all ATV operators,” said Gary Eddy, Department of Natural Resources ATV and snowmobile administrator. said Eddy. “These new rules will help protect the future of the ATV program in Wisconsin.”
The rule that goes into effect March 1 authorizes a test procedure that has been adopted by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) as a means to measure ATV noise levels using a nationally consistent method. In brief, stationary ATV exhaust noise is measured at 20 inches away with the ATV throttled up to half the machine’s maximum RPMs.
“Excessive noise levels on our trail systems hurt the ATV program. We’re happy to see law enforcement get this very important tool,” stated Randy Harden, President of the Wisconsin ATV Association.
The other rule change affects the non-resident ATV trail pass. A 2003 law created a nonresident ATV trail pass that needs to be displayed on ATVs not registered in Wisconsin. Current law requires an ATV to be registered in Wisconsin unless the ATV is registered in another state and has not been in Wisconsin longer than 15 consecutive days. However, some states do not have a registration program.
“Some nonresident owners were confused about whether they needed Wisconsin registration, a non-resident trail pass or both,” said Eddy.
“This new rule clears up that confusion by providing an exemption for an out of state ATV from registration if the ATV displays a nonresident decal and if it is not in Wisconsin for a period of more than 15 consecutive days.”
With the new rule, out of state ATV owners need only purchase a non-resident trail pass to ride Wisconsin trails. If the ATV is kept in Wisconsin for more than 15 consecutive days, then the ATV must be registered in Wisconsin. ATV trail passes are $18 and are valid from July 1 to June 30.
In Fairchild ATV trail passes are available at the Cenex Gas & Convenience store.
(intersection of Hwy 10 & 12)
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Eddy – (608) 267-7455
All Terrain Vehicle Operation in Wisconsin
The following information is taken directly from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website (see LINK page)
All Terrain Vehicle Operation in Wisconsin
All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Registration Application
(PDF, 216KB) MUST BE VALIDATED prior to operation of the machine.
Refer to the list of Validation Stations to find the one nearest you.
ATV Registration Renewals Online
The Department of Natural Resources is now offering registration renewal services via the Internet. This service is a quick and convenient way to renew your registration with a credit card (Visa® MasterCard®). There is an additional $1.00 for this service. ATV owners who renew online can also print the validation receipt that will allow them to operate their ATV while they wait for the new registration certificate and decals. This service is available 24hours a day, seven days a week. The online renewal page for ATV can be found at www.atv.wisconsin.gov
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Trail Pass
Wisconsin law requires those who use Wisconsin ATV trails to display either Wisconsin registration or an ATV trail pass. Funds from this program will be designated for use as trail aids and related costs to enhance all Wisconsin ATV recreation.
The trail pass can be purchased online at our Online Licensing Center or over the counter at any license sales location.
The $18.00 non-resident ATV trail use pass is valid from July 1st through June 30th.
An ATV trail pass is required to operate an ATV not currently registered in Wisconsin on an ATV trail.
The ATV must be currently registered in another state.
The trail pass must be permanently affixed by its own adhesive in a highly visible location on the forward half of the ATV.
Once affixed, the sticker may not be removed or transferred to another ATV.
When used safely and wisely an all terrain vehicle (ATV) can provide a source of fun and family recreation. When used unwisely by an untrained, inexperienced operator, an all-terrain vehicle can be very, very dangerous. With safety in mind, an all-terrain vehicle can be a useful tool for work and a great means of exploring the outdoors.
