Newfoundland and Labrador, the final eastern Canadian frontier… Here come tired travelers from other provinces or even from other countries, seeking to regain their energy on their ATV and side-by-side during a well deserved vacation, to explore Newfoundland’s amazing landscapes… But to “boldly go” on our trails, here are five rules you must observe.
1. Wearing a helmet is mandatory
Effective May 19, 2022, wearing a helmet became mandatory, except for activities involving hunting and trapping, frequent stops and speeds of less than 20 km per hour.
2. Buckle up in your side-by-side vehicle
Buckling up your seatbelts is also mandatory in off-road vehicles that have seatbelts installed by the manufacturer.
3. No passengers unless…
You can’t operate an off-road vehicle with a passenger in it, unless the vehicle is designed and equipped by the manufacturer to carry passengers or if the passenger rides on a regulatory seat that is attached to the off-road vehicle. The additional seat must be designed to carry a passenger.
4. Face shield required
For better eye protection, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador requires the use of a proper face shield, safety glasses or goggles in case the off-road vehicle is not equipped with a windshield sufficiently high to ensure adequate eye protection.
5. No ATVs for youths under 14
A rider must be 16 years old to operate an adult sized ATV. Starting at age 14, young people can operate an ATV with an engine size of 90 cc or less. Those under 14 years of age are not permitted to operate an ATV OF ANY SIZE.
Nature preservation
We must remind you that the Newfoundland and Labrador wetlands are an important component of the forest ecosystem. They provide protection from floods by storing precipitation and regulating runoff. Furthermore, migratory routes for caribou and other wildlife species include large tracts of land and at the same time provide a wide range of environmental, tourist and social benefits.
Protecting these sensitive areas from long-term damage by ATV traffic is the prime reason for the regulations – and the reason you must ride on approved trails.
Have a nice trip in Newfoundland!