Release - Dirt Bikes in Essa Township
FROM: TOWNSHIP OF ESSA ADMINISTRATION CENTRE
RE: DIRT BIKES IN ESSA TOWNSHIP
May 13, 2022 - The Township of Essa would like to remind dirt bike enthusiasts that dirt bikes equipped with a green and white license plate or no licence plate are not permitted to be driven on roadways, sidewalks, parks, community centres, schools, conservation areas and trails that are under municipal jurisdiction.
Dirt bikes that are equipped with a blue and white street license plate can ride on the roadway and designated trails (with valid trail permit). Such drivers are required to hold a valid Class M1, M2 or M Drivers License, and as well, are required to obey and follow ALL rules of the road in accordance with the Highway Traffic Act (HTA).
Where can you legally ride a dirt bike with a green and white licence plate?
- On private property with written permission from the owner. If you do not have permission from the owner, then you are trespassing.
- On trails that are designated for such use through the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders (OFTR). A valid permit is required to be obtained to legally use these trails and can be obtained through OFTR. For more information, visit OFTR.ca.
- NOT on any municipally owned roads, sidewalks, greenspaces or parks.
Where can you legally ride a dirt bike with a blue and white licence plate?
- On private property with written permission from the owner. If you do not have permission from the owner, then you are trespassing.
- On trails that are designated for such use through the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders (OFTR). A valid permit is required to be obtained to legally use these trails and can be obtained through OFTR. For more information, visit OFTR.ca.
- All roadways, riders must obey and follow ALL rules of the road in accordance with the Highway Traffic Act (HTA).
In order to legally ride within public riding areas, the following is mandatory:
- Green or blue license plate correctly mounted.
- Insured in accordance with section 2 of the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act and section 15 of the Off-Roads Vehicles Act.
- Registration (ownership).
- Trail permit sticker (OFTR).
- Wear a Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) approved or equivalent helmet that complies with section 19 of the Off-Road Vehicles Act.
Be considerate, be safe and ride legal
Complaints concerning Dirt Bikes, ATVs or ORVs not following regulations while driving on on roads, or that are trespassing on private property can be directed to the Nottawasaga OPP
OPP Non-Emergency 1(888) 310-1122 in an emergency please dial 911