ATV Riding Laws – Nevada
Chapter 490 of the Nevada statutes dealing with Off-Highway Vehicles makes provision for the regulation of ATV use in this state. Riders must abide by these rules and regulations when using either public or private land.
In general, ATVs may only be used in certain designated areas within the Nevada’s parks. Unless otherwise permitted by law, ATVs may not be ridden on highways that are not designated for their use.
ATV Certification
The statutes impose rules for dealers and authorize them to apply for the certification of ATVs. When selling a vehicle, they must apply for a certificate of title on behalf of the owner. Dealers are also authorized to apply for a title for an owner who has purchased an ATV in a private sale; provided the owner provides proof that all tax due on the purchase was paid.
Dealers are not entitled to compensation for providing this service. Their authorization may be revoked if they fail to comply with these regulations.
An ATV may not be used on a highway unless it has the necessary certificate to do so and this must be clearly displayed on the vehicle. The certificate of title remains valid if the owner sells or transfers ownership of the ATV.
Certificates are not required for an ATV operated by the federal or state government. Those vehicles owned by county and city authorities are also exempt. Certificates are also not needed for those ATVs that form part of a dealer’s inventory. ATVs that are registered in another state and are not in Nevada for more than 90 days need not be certified.
Rules for ATV Operation
People may ride ATVs on any public land unless any particular section is prohibited for use by government. Maps and signs must be erected by government that clearly indicates those areas designated for use and those prohibited.
No ATV may ride on a highway that is not designated for its use, except if it is with the sole purpose of crossing that highway.
The law permits counties and local authorities to allow the use of ATVs on the streets, roads, and highways within their jurisdiction. These authorities must apply for approval from the Nevada Department of Transportation if they would like to designate any portion of a state highway for ATV use. Application for use on an interstate highway will be denied.
An ATV rider younger than 16 using a designated highway must be supervised by another person who is 18 or older. Authorized riding on highways is only permitted for the purpose of travel and not for recreation. ATV riders are only permitted to travel on such a highway for a maximum distance of 2 miles.
Safety Regulations
When riding on highways, ATV drivers must wear a helmet and comply with all traffic laws. For safety purposes, the vehicle should also have:
- At least one headlight
- A minimum of one taillight and red rear reflector
- A brake light at the back of the vehicle
- A muffler in good working order