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Course Outline

  • Roads, streets, and highways maintained for year-round automobile travel are closed to ORV operation, including the shoulder and the right-of-way. ORVs registered as motor vehicles by the Secretary of State may be operated on the roadway. In addition, ORVs are prohibited from operation on any part of an interstate highway.
  • ORVs may be operated on a roadway in accordance with a locally enacted ordinance. The ORV rider is responsible for contacting the local authorities to find out which roadways are open to ORV use. In addition, ORVs may be operated on a State Trunk Line Highway if it is part of an approved and signed MDOT ORV Connector Route.
  • ORVs operating under a county ordinance are required to:
    • Operate with the flow of traffic.
    • Operate on the far-right portion of the roadway or shoulder.
    • Operate at a speed no greater than 25 miles per hour or a lower posted speed limit.
    • Not operate in a manner that interferes with traffic on the roadway.
    • Operate single file.
    • Operate displaying a lighted headlight and taillight.
    • Have affixed an ORV license as required by law.
  • Private land is closed to ORV operation, except for use by the landowner and the landowner’s invited guests. The failure of a landowner to post or fence private property against ORV use does not imply consent to ORV operation.
  • ORVs may not be operated in the ditchlines/right-of-ways next to roads.
  • ORVs that display a valid ORV license may be operated on the frozen surfaces of public waters. However, the ORV may not be operated within 100 feet of a person, an ice fishing shanty, or an area that is cleared for ice skating, unless the ORV is being operated at the minimum speed necessary for controlled forward movement.
  • An ORV may not be operated in a manner that creates an erosive condition.
    • Michigan’s soils and shorelines are fragile, and ORV operation in these areas and along stream banks and other waterways is restricted.
    • Riding in riparian areas in Michigan is illegal. Those riders caught operating in a riparian area will be subject to a large fine and also may be required to forfeit their ORV.
  • ORVs may not be operated in a manner that would injure, damage, or destroy trees or growing crops.
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