Off-highway vehicles include ATVs, electric and gas dirt bikes, side-by-sides and snowmobiles. These small vehicles are popular for recreational use in Strathcona County. Before using an off-highway vehicle (OHV), please make sure you’re familiar with the rules and regulations that apply.
On this page
OHV safety tips
Wearing a Canadian Standards Association (CSA) compliant helmet is mandatory when operating an OHV on public property and strongly recommended on private property.
Riders under the age of 14 must be under the direct supervision of an adult.
Follow the manufacturers’ recommendations when determining the minimum age of riders and the number of passengers allowed.
Off-highway vehicles are not permitted to be operated in any park, recreation or exhibition grounds, environmental reserve, municipal and school reserve within the County.
Operating any OHV while impaired is against the law.
When conditions are dry, check if there are any fire or OHV bans that could impact your plans.
When operating a snowmobile on a frozen lake, make sure the ice is thick enough to hold the weight of the vehicle before driving on to the ice.
Some e-bikes meet the criteria to be classified as an OHV. E-bike owners are encouraged to review the criteria and know if their device is considered a power bicycle or OHV before riding.
Rules and regulations
The use of off-highway vehicles in Strathcona County is regulated by Alberta's Traffic Safety Act, Off Highway Vehicle Regulation as well as Strathcona County's Traffic Bylaw and Parks Bylaw.
OHVs are considered motor vehicles. In Alberta, an OHV driver can be charged with the same impaired driving charges as a driver of a motor vehicle.
When riding on public property
Minimum driving age is 14 years old.
Wearing a helmet is required.
Valid insurance and registration are required.
The OHV must have a valid licence plate, working head lights and taillights, a proper exhaust muffler and spark arrestor. The licence plate must be clearly visible.
Details on where you can ride your OHV on public property can be found under Where can I ride?
When riding on private property
No age restrictions apply. Any rider under the age of 14 is required to be close to a supervising adult.
Registration is not required.
Permission from the landowner or leaseholder is required when operating an OHV on property that is not yours.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations
Where can I ride?
Know where you can legally operate your ATV, dirt bike or snowmobile.
Resources
Further information:
Enforcement Services
Phone: 780-449-0170
Address:
911 Bison Way
Sherwood Park, Alberta
T8H 1S9
