Off-road vehicles will soon be allowed on the shoulders of some of Ontario's public roads.
Starting next month, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off-road vehicles (ORVs) will be able to travel along the shoulders of provincial highways, Ontario Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca announced Monday.
"Our government recognizes the importance of a vibrant, sustainable and safe power sports sector in Ontario, and we support providing Ontarians with more options to safely explore our vast province," Del Duca said at a news conference in Rockland, Ont.
Current law allows only single-rider ATVs to operate along provincial and municipal highways, but starting July 1, two-up and side-by-side ATVs will also be allowed.
The ministry consulted with trail, municipal, industry, enforcement and health and safety officials before approving the change, a statement said.
Del Duca noted that municipalities will still have to pass bylaws allowing ATVs and ORVs on municipal road and highway shoulders.
Drivers operating an ORV along a road or highway must hold at least a G2 or M2 driver's licence, and their vehicle must be registered and insured.
At the same time, Del Duca announced a crackdown on measures meant to make off-roading safer for riders.
Starting July 1, riders of all ages will have to wear a helmet and "use a seatbelt or foot rests, where applicable," a statement from the ministry said.
There will be a two-month education period lasting until Sept. 1, before officers begin ticketing those breaking the new rules. However, during this time, police may still lay charges through a summons.
