Local Regulations & Laws
Essential legal information for responsible off-road recreation
⚠️ LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Laws and regulations vary significantly by location and change frequently. This information is for general guidance only.
Always verify current local, state, and federal regulations before riding. Contact local authorities, land management agencies, or legal counsel for specific guidance.
Federal Land Regulations
National Forest Service
Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM)
Designate where motorized vehicles are allowed. Required for all National Forest riding.
Forest Service Regulations
- • Stay on designated trails and roads
- • Obtain required permits and passes
- • Follow seasonal closures
- • Comply with group size limits
- • Respect wildlife protection areas
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
OHV Area Designations
Open, Limited, and Closed areas with specific use restrictions and requirements.
Common BLM Requirements
- • Valid vehicle registration
- • Spark arrestor required
- • Helmets may be required
- • Speed limits enforced
- • Environmental protection rules
Key Federal Resources
National Forest Service
www.fs.usda.gov →Bureau of Land Management
www.blm.gov →State and Local Regulations
Common State Requirements
Vehicle Registration & Licensing
- • OHV registration or license plates
- • Valid driver's license requirements
- • Age restrictions for different vehicle types
- • Insurance requirements (varies by state)
Safety Equipment
- • Helmet laws (age and type requirements)
- • Eye protection requirements
- • Lighting and reflector requirements
- • Sound level restrictions
Trail Access & Permits
State Park Systems
- • Entry fees and annual passes
- • Designated OHV areas and trails
- • Seasonal closures and restrictions
- • Group permits for organized rides
Local Ordinances
- • Noise ordinances and quiet hours
- • Trail access restrictions
- • Private property regulations
- • Environmental protection zones
Popular Riding Areas & Regulations
Moab, Utah
Managing Agency: BLM, National Park Service
Key Requirements:
- • Valid vehicle registration
- • Stay on designated trails
- • No camping in washes
- • Pack out all trash
Johnson Valley, CA
Managing Agency: BLM
Key Requirements:
- • Green sticker (resident) vehicles only
- • Spark arrestor required
- • Helmet required under 18
- • Open riding allowed in designated areas
Hatfield-McCoy, WV
Managing Agency: State of West Virginia
Key Requirements:
- • Trail permit required
- • Helmet required
- • Insurance required
- • Stay on marked trails
Pre-Ride Legal Research Checklist
Before Every Ride
New Area Research
Key Regulatory Resources
State Agencies
Parks, DMV, Natural Resources
Contact your stateLocal Authorities
Sheriff, Rangers, City/County
Contact local area