Traffic / HTA

ATVs and Off-Road Vehicles on Ontario Roads

In many parts of Ontario, off-road vehicles can use the shoulder of public roads. Here are the rules that apply.

Gray streetlight near building

Ontario allows many types of off-road vehicles (ORVs), such as ATVs, side-by-sides and some off-road motorcycles, on some provincial highway shoulders, and on municipal roads only where the municipality allows them, under the Highway Traffic Act and its regulations.

The short answer

Where ORVs are allowed, the driver must be at least 16 with a G2 or M2 licence or higher, the vehicle must be registered, insured and plated, and everyone must wear a helmet. On municipal roads, they are allowed only where a by-law permits them (or the municipality is listed in the regulation).

The basic requirements

  • Driver's licence: at least G2 or M2.
  • Registration, plate and insurance.
  • Helmets for drivers and passengers, and seat belts where the vehicle has them.
  • Age: passengers must meet minimum age rules.

Where you can drive

  • On the shoulder of permitted provincial highways, such as many in the 500 to 899 and 7000 series, in the same direction as traffic.
  • On municipal roads only where the municipality has passed a by-law allowing them, or is listed in the regulation.
  • Never on 400-series highways or the Queen Elizabeth Way.

Speed limits

selective focus photography of three books beside opened notebook

ORVs may go no faster than 20 km/h where the speed limit is 50 km/h or less, and 50 km/h where it is higher.

Private land and trails

Driving on private land needs the owner's permission, under the Trespass to Property Act. Trail systems have their own permits.

Tickets

Driving without a licence, plate, insurance or helmet can lead to fines and other penalties.

Talk to NEO

Got a ticket? NEO can review it with you and represent you in provincial offences court. Call 647-200-3526 or toll-free 888-519-2435, email info@neolegalservices.com, or book a free consultation.

Sources

Read next: Licence Plate Renewal in Ontario: No Stickers, but Still Required

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 16 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Unsplash: gray streetlight near building · selective focus photography of three books beside opened notebook.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.

Not sure where you stand? A licensed paralegal can look at your documents and tell you your options.

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Law Society of Ontario — Barreau de l'Ontario
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