The idea of taking ATVs onto public roads might sound like something out of a 1970s Doobie Brothers song, but in Minnesota, it remains off-limits. While all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) can be ridden on designated trails and private property, using them to travel through town via roads or highway shoulders is currently prohibited.
That could soon change under HF566, a bill introduced by Rep. Roger Skraba (R-Ely). The proposal would allow cities and towns with populations under 25,000 to adopt ordinances permitting ATVs on certain roadways and highway shoulders—provided they meet specific conditions:
- The road has a speed limit of 45 mph or lower
- ATV use is strictly for accessing businesses, residences, or connecting to trails
- No alternative public access route is available for ATVs
On Monday, the House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee approved the bill, sending it forward to the House Elections Finance and Government Operations Committee for further review.
A Boon for Rural Communities?
Skraba emphasized the importance of the bill for Greater Minnesota and rural areas where ATVs serve not just as recreational vehicles but also as practical transportation.
“This bill will help small cities better integrate ATVs into their local transportation networks,” Skraba said.
Nick Wognum, board secretary of ATV Minnesota, echoed this sentiment, pointing out that many small towns across the state face similar challenges.
“I’ve traveled across Minnesota evaluating trail opportunities, and one consistent issue stands out: small towns divided by state highways,” Wognum said. “People shouldn’t be penalized just for trying to get from one place to another.”
Safety Concerns from Transportation Officials
Despite the bill’s potential benefits, Ken Johnson, assistant state traffic engineer at the Minnesota Department of Transportation, voiced serious concerns about safety.
“Allowing ATVs to operate near heavier, faster-moving vehicles contradicts our ‘Toward Zero Deaths’ initiative,” Johnson warned. “The Department of Natural Resources, Department of Public Safety, and State Patrol share our concerns.”
Johnson pointed to alarming statistics:
“In 2024 alone, 23 fatal ATV crashes occurred in Minnesota. If this bill becomes law, we anticipate that number will rise.”
He highlighted that ATVs lack essential safety features and are difficult to see, especially behind larger vehicles like pickups.
A Willingness to Find Middle Ground
In response to these concerns, Skraba expressed openness to collaborating with MnDOT and other agencies to address safety issues.
“I’m willing to work with officials to find solutions,” he said, signaling that further discussions and potential revisions to the bill may be on the horizon.
With safety and accessibility at the forefront of the debate, the future of ATV road access in Minnesota remains uncertain. The next step? Further scrutiny as the bill moves through legislative committees.