With the warmer weather approaching and more people enjoying the outdoors, the Lake Cowichan RCMP want to remind the public about the laws surrounding the use of off-road motor vehicles on Crown and private land.
Over the last few years there have been a number of close calls between ORMV and industry vehicles, most notably while being operated contrary to regulations.
Off-road vehicles include ATVs or quads, off-road motorcycles, side-by-sides, Jeeps, trucks, SUVs and other small motor vehicles, and snowmobiles.
As of Nov. 1, 2015, off-road vehicle owners must register vehicles used on Crown land and clearly display their ICBC number plates or stickers.
Some exemptions apply.
The Off-Road Vehicle Act stipulates where an ORMV may be operated.
The Act states that a person must not use or operate an off-road vehicle on the tracks of an operating railway, or on private land without the consent of the owner, lessee or occupant of the private land.
Much of the land surrounding the Lake Cowichan area is privately owned.
Before you head out, ensure you have prior authorization to operate your ORMV and learn more about off-road vehicle laws and safety tips at www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/crown-land-water/crown-land/crown-land-uses/off-road-vehicles