All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and snowmobiles are popular for recreational use in Strathcona County. Residents should consider the safety of themselves and other riders as a top priority.
Note: Helmets are mandatory on ATVs and snowmobiles in Alberta as of May 2017.
ATVs
If you operate an ATV in Strathcona County, please follow these guidelines to stay safe.
- Helmets are mandatory in Alberta as of May 2017.
- No child/youth under 16 years of age should operate an adult ATV.
- Ensure your child/youth only rides an ATV that is appropriate for their age, weight and maturity. Follow manufacturers' recommendations.
- Wear an approved helmet with face and eye protection.
- Drive Sober - alcohol, drugs and ATVs don't mix.
- Refuse to carry or be a passenger on an ATV built for one person.
- Take an ATV operator training course.
- When conditions are dry, use extreme caution and ensure that your ATV is equipped with a spark arrestor.
Snowmobiles
- Snowmobilers require registration and insurance, and must be able to produce them when requested to do so by a peace officer.
- Registration for snowmobiles may be obtained from any outlet in Alberta where motor vehicle licenses are sold.
- The license plate must be clearly displayed on the front or back of the snowmobile.
- The Insurance Act requires that snowmobiles have minimum coverage of $200,000 in public liability and property damage. Coverage of $1,000,000 in public liability and property damage is commonly carried.
- Riders must be at least 14 years of age to operate a snowmobile on their own. Any rider under the age of 14 is required to be within close proximity of a supervising adult.
Alcohol and snowmobiling don't mix
In Alberta, a snowmobile driver can be charged with the same impaired driving charges as a driver of a motor vehicle. The majority of snowmobile collisions involve drinking and riding. Play it safe – avoid alcohol and drugs before and during the ride.
Further information:
Enforcement Services
Phone: 780-449-0170
Address:
911 Bison Way
Sherwood Park, Alberta
T8H 1S9
The law defines ATVs and snowmobiles as Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV). OHVs are motor vehicles designed for off-highway travel such as quads, trail bikes, snowmobiles, amphibious vehicles and off-road go-carts.
Before you go riding, please make sure there isn’t a fire advisory or ban or off-road vehicle ban in place.