ATV Riding Laws – Massachusetts
The use of ATVs in Massachusetts is governed by Chapter 90B of the Massachusetts General Laws. In 2010, the Massachusetts legislature approved revisions to the off-road vehicle laws which included:
- Age restrictions for riders
- Training requirements for riders younger than 18
- More stringent penalties for illegal use
Age Restrictions
The revisions made to ATV riding laws in 2010, made these the most stringent in the nation in terms of children’s safety. In the United States, children under 16 years of age account for 40 percent of fatalities and injuries in off-road vehicles. The revised law imposes the following age restrictions for ATV riders:
- A child under the age of 10 may not ride an ATV under any circumstances.
- Between the ages of 10 and 14, a child may only ride an ATV with an engine capacity of 90cc or less in an organized and sanctioned event.
- Between the ages of 14 and 16, a teenager may operate an ATV with an engine capacity greater than 90cc only if supervised by an adult.
- Under the age of 16 and a half, no person can ride an ATV across a public way without the supervision of an adult.
Furthermore, to ensure the safety of all children and teenagers, all riders under 18 years of age must complete an approved training course covering safety issues and responsible riding.
Provisions for Registration
By law, all ATVs must be registered. Registrations for residents are valid for two years, while nonresidents must apply for a renewal annually. Out-of-state registrations are not recognized in Massachusetts.
On registration, the owner will be given a registration card and decal. The card must be carried whenever a person is riding, and the decal must be clearly displayed on the vehicle.
Safety and Other Requirements
By law, every rider must wear a safety helmet approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The vehicle must have:
- An adequate braking system.
- At least one headlight, one red tail light and rear reflector that must be on at all times between sunset and sunrise.
- A spark arrestor.
All ATVs must be fitted with a noise muffler. The law also prohibits anyone from riding an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Riders may not operate a vehicle in a way that endangers other people or poses a disturbance to the environment.
Statutory Operating Requirements
Massachusetts ATV law requires riders to ensure they have due consideration for the public, landowners and the environment. Accordingly, it is illegal to:
- To ride on a public way, unless at a designated crossing point.
- Ride on private land without permission.
- Ride on any public property if it is not an authorized trail. This property includes federal and municipal parks and lands.
- Carry passengers on an ATV that is not licensed to do so.