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AG's Division of Criminal Justice Tightens Enforcements Against Misuse of Off-Road Vehicles
As summer nears, the New Jersey Attorney General's Office has issued a comprehensive directive to clarify state laws concerning the improper use of off-road vehicles (ORVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on public lands and streets. The move is aimed at increasing awareness among law enforcement about existing laws and regulations that can be employed to penalize violators.
The Attorney General’s Division of Criminal Justice published the directive, outlining the regulations governing ATVs and ORVs, including motorized dirt bikes and four-wheelers. This comes in response to rising concerns about inappropriate use of these vehicles on public lands and streets, leading to environmental harm, safety risks, noise pollution, and in defiance of an increasing number of state and local laws tackling the issue.
ATV and ORV use can be lawful on private properties and at permitted times and places on public lands. The newly issued guidance explains in detail when and where the use of these vehicles is prohibited.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said, "The misuse of these vehicles on roadways poses a significant threat to the safety of the driving public and pedestrians, while their unlawful use on public lands endangers the natural landscape and natural resources. The improper use of these vehicles in open spaces where they don't belong has damaged important habitats, disturbed wildlife, destroyed plants, and disrupted the public’s quiet enjoyment of natural areas meant for use by all.”
As the summer recreational season approaches, the Attorney General’s Office is informing law enforcement officers who may need to take enforcement actions against drivers who misuse these vehicles. Offenders may face financial penalties, and their off-road vehicles could be confiscated and potentially auctioned off.
ORVs are generally banned on public lands, a broad term encompassing all lands protected and maintained as assets for society. This includes lands under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), lands used for conservation purposes, and “any land so designated by municipal or county ordinance.”
Under New Jersey law, snowmobiles, ATVs, and dirt bikes are prohibited from use on public streets. Counties and municipalities may also enforce local ordinances or regulations restricting the use of such vehicles on public roads.
The guidance outlines the authority and enforcement mechanisms available to law enforcement agencies at the state, county, and local level when dealing with ATVs and ORVs. The full guidance document can be accessed here.
