Over the last week, the Prince George RCMP have received an increased number of reports from the public about people using dirt bikes improperly.
These reports are happening all over Prince George and include uninsured dirt bikes being ridden on streets & highways, to dirt bikes being ridden aggressively on local walking trails.
The use of dirt bikes, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and utility-terrain vehicles (UTVs, or more commonly known as side by sides), is a popular recreational activity around our community. Having said that, this activity must be carried out within the provincial and municipal legislation and should be done while respecting other community members.
According to provincial legislation, motorized off-road vehicles such as dirt bikes, ATVs, and UTVs, may cross roads at controlled intersections, provided they are registered with the province and have a number plate or sticker. Otherwise, uninsured dirt bikes, ATVs and UTVs are prohibited from roads and highways. For more information, go to ICBC’s information page or view the BC Off-Road Vehicle Act here.
Within the City of Prince George, no motorized vehicles are allowed to operate in City parks or on city trails. View City of Prince George bylaws .
From experience, the majority of riders that violate these laws, are youth who appear to be under the age of 18. The Prince George RCMP would like to remind parents and guardians to speak with their children about respectful use of their motorized vehicles while abiding by provincial and municipal legislation.
Fines for violators can easily add up to over $1000 and the motorized vehicle can be seized. In addition, operators and their guardians could be subject to criminal and civil action should an incident take place. Failing to stop for police is a criminal offence.
If you have any information about persons operating dirt bikes, ATVs, and UTVs improperly, please contact the Prince George RCMP at (250)561-3300.