News

OHV Use in Thorsby: Ride Responsibly and Respectfully

Hello, Thorsby OHV enthusiasts! With the growing excitement of off-road adventures, we’ve seen a rise in OHV-related complaints. We want to take a moment to remind everyone about the importance of using your OHVs safely and responsibly. Let’s keep our community a great place to live and play by following these important guidelines:

1. No OHV Use Permitted in Town Limits: Just a quick reminder that OHV use is not allowed within the town limits of Thorsby. Because we don’t have a specific OHV bylaw, the Alberta Traffic Safety Act and Alberta Off-Highway Vehicle Regulation applies here, meaning OHVs should stay off public roads, sidewalks, and parks. It’s all about keeping everyone safe!
2. Respect Private Property: Always ask for permission before riding on private land. Respecting our neighbors and keeping trails pristine makes Thorsby a wonderful place for everyone.
3. Noise Considerations: We know how fun OHVs can be, but let’s keep noise to a minimum, especially during early mornings and late evenings. Keeping things peaceful helps everyone enjoy their time here.
4. Understanding the Rules and Consequences:
• Stay Off Public Roads and Sidewalks: Riding your OHV on public roads or sidewalks can result in fines of $233. 
• Registration and Insurance: Make sure your OHV is registered and insured. Failing to do so can lead to fines ranging from $233 to $10,000.
• Impaired Operation: Riding while impaired is never okay. It can result in immediate license suspension, fines starting at $1,000, and even criminal charges.
• Safety Gear and Supervision: Always wear a helmet, and if you’re under 14, make sure you’re supervised by an adult. Ignoring these rules could lead to fines and even vehicle seizure.
• Environmental Respect: Avoid damaging the environment—fines and restoration orders could follow if you harm our beautiful natural spaces.
• Stop for Peace Officers: If a peace officer signals you to stop, please do so. Failing to stop can lead to serious consequences, including additional fines, vehicle seizure, and potential criminal charges.
5. Know the Rules: It’s important to remember that “I didn’t know” isn’t a valid excuse. As an OHV user, it’s your responsibility to know and follow the rules here in Alberta. Being informed helps keep you and everyone else safe. You can review designated trails and areas where OHVs are permitted by visiting Alberta Off-Highway Vehicle Association (AOHVA) Trail Maps.

We’re all about having fun and enjoying the great outdoors, but we also want to keep Thorsby safe and welcoming for everyone. By following these guidelines, you’re doing your part to make our town a safer, happier place.

Resources:

• Alberta Off-Highway Vehicle Regulation: https://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Regs/2002_319.pdf
• Alberta Traffic Safety Act: https://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Acts/t06.pdf
• Alberta OHV Trail Maps: https://aohva.com/trail-maps/
• Town of Thorsby Website: https://thorsby.ca

For more information on OHV regulations and tips, contact the local enforcement department.

Ride safe and responsibly, Thorsby!