Observing OHV Laws in Utah

Meeting OHV Equipment Requirements

Before an OHV may be operated in Utah, the vehicle and its riders must have the required equipment.

• Braking System: The brakes must be able to stop and hold the vehicle.
• Lights: If operated between sunset and sunrise, the OHV must have and display a headlight and a taillight.
• Whip Flag: While operating an OHV on designated sand dune areas, a red or orange whip flag must be attached to the vehicle. The flag must be at least 6"x12" in size and must be at least eight feet off the ground.
• Spark Arrestor and Muffler: An OHV must have a U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrestor and muffler that are in good working condition. Snowmobiles must have a muffler but are exempt from the spark arrestor requirement.
• Helmet: All OHV operators and passengers under 18 years of age must wear a helmet that is properly fitted and fastened. The helmet must be designed for motorized vehicle use and have a safety-approved label from the Department of Transportation (DOT), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), or the Snell Memorial Foundation. Since a properly fitting, safety-approved helmet is the most important safety gear for an OHV rider or passenger, the Utah State Parks and Recreation Department strongly encourages all riders to wear helmets.