Purchase the VVMapping Map Book
Printed map book with over 150 pages of color maps from around Wisconsin.
Printed map book with over 150 pages of color maps from around Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association is has a long and proud track record of enacting legislation that moves our sport forward. Below are accomplishments of the association in the last 20 years.
2007 | Senate Bill 514 Act 209 |
Created a UTV (Light Utility Vehicle) pilot program that was conducted for several years. |
2009 | Senate Bill 448 Act 20 |
Extended UTV (Light Utility Vehicle) Pilot Program |
2011 | Senate Bill 354 Act 208 | Provided permanent registration and updated regulations for UTVs. Introduced major changes, including defining a UTV, aligning UTVs with ATV laws, requiring operators to be at least 16 years old and have ATV Safety Certification, registration categories, new non-resident 5-day ATV/UTV trail pass, late registration renewal fee, funding for ATV trails allowing UTVs, rear license plate, registration free weekend, expiration date of registrations, tampering of odometers. |
2013 | Senate Bill 32 Companion: Assembly Bill 43 Act 15 | Youth safety bill/grandparents bill relating to age restrictions, safety certificates, and speed reductions regarding the operation of an ATV. |
2013 | Senate Bill 29 Companion: Assembly Bill 44 Act 16 | Created Governors ORV Council. |
2017 | Senate Bill 392 Companion: Assembly Bill 485 Act 87 | Allowed the operation of an ATV or UTV on the roadway or shoulder of a highway for the purpose of crossing a bridge, even if the roadway is officially closed to ATV or UTV traffic. |
2017 | Assembly Bill 442 Companion: Senate Bill 437 Act 193 | Provided guidelines for political subdivisions to designate ATV routes, erect signs, and allowed the designation of all highways within territorial boundaries as ATV routes. |
2017 | State Budget Item 22 | Reinstated the Safety Enhancement Program – Trail Patrol Ambassador program. |
2019 | Senate Bill 583 Companion: Assembly Bill 652 Act 183 | - Eliminated the requirement for low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires on ATVs and UTVs. - Provided a measurement method for the width of an ATV or UTV - Introduced various modifications and exemptions related to registration, auxiliary lighting, diming high beams for oncoming vehicles, operation during emergencies, acquisition of communications equipment, compliance with stop signs or other regulatory signs, and safety information sign funding for nonprofit organizations. |
2021 | Senate Bill 269 Companion: Assembly Bill 265 Act 70 | Increased weight definition for UTVs to 3,000 lbs. |
2021 | Senate Bill 364 Companion: Assembly Bill 366 Act 103 | Eliminated the 40' rule requiring the need for a light barrier during nighttime travel. |
2021 | Senate Bill 506 Companion: Assembly Bill 516 Act 164 | Local authorities may designate highways as ATV routes, with the ability to post specific speed limits for ATVs and UTVs. |
2021 | Senate Bill 727 Companion: Assembly Bill 760 Act 176 | Combined six DNR ATV and UTV appropriations into three, streamlining funding. |
2023 | Senate Bill 239 Companion: Assembly Bill 238 Act 67 | Moved mapping app and communications for TPA program from ORV council to DNR LE budget with a yearly appropriation. |
2023 | State Budget: Departmentwide Item 8 State Budget: Law Enforcement Item 4 | - Increased maximum summer trail maintenance funding for ATV trails allowing UTVs from $200/mile to $400/mile. - Increased funding for County ATV/UTV Law Enforcement grants to $1.3 million. - Increased by 3 the number of positions for the warden team in the State Budget. |
Participate in our silent auction! We have a lot of fantastic prizes lined up from our sponsors! Bidding is easy, and can be done at any time. You will be notified if you're outbid and can up your bid to snatch that item.
The following businesses have made a financial contribution to cover the cost of your lunch and dinner, acknowledging the hard work our clubs do, that in turn benefits their businesses.
We're all working to make Wisconsin a great place to live, work and play.
Team Winnebagoland - Oshkosh | Engelhart's - Madison | Ecklund Motorsports- Appleton |
Rob's Performance - Johnson Creek | Zacho Sports- Chippewa Falls | Donahue Super Sports- Wisconsin Rapids |
Fuel Powersports- West Bend | Vetesnik's - Richland Center | TA Motorsports- Francis Creek |
Cedar Creek Motorsports - Cedarburg | Mad City Power Sports- DeForest | Hexco Powersports- Oshkosh |
Action Power Sports- Waukesha | 2 Brother's- Onalaska | Cozzy Polaris- Marinette |
Verne's Kawaski of Antigo- Antigo | Antigo Yamaha- Antigo | Ken's Sports- Kaukauna |
Feldmann's Sales and Service - Howards Grove |
Friday night is our welcome reception and early check-in for our WATVA members. Join us starting at 6:00 p.m. in the commons area.
Expo 4 |
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7:30 a.m. | Conference Check-In. Online auction continues. |
9:00 a.m. | Pledge of Allegiance - Opening Ceremony by Stevens Point Mayor Mike Wiza |
9:30 a.m. | Drew Nussbaum - WI Dept. of Tourism / Travelwisconsin.com |
9:45 a.m. | Break |
10:00 a.m. | Cassie Mordini - Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation |
10:45 a.m. | Break |
11:00 a.m. | Jillian Steffes - WI DNR Grant Manager for Off-Road Motorized Recreation, Rob McConnell & Mike Biese Governors' ORV Council |
11:30 a.m. | Lt. Jake Holsclaw - WI DNR Administrator, Bureau of recreation Safety and Outdoor Skills |
12:00 p.m. | Lunch |
1:30 p.m. | Ride Safe Foundation |
2:00 p.m. | Wisconsin Motor Vehicle Reciprocity Dilemma |
2:30 p.m. | Break |
2:45 p.m. | UTV Definition Challenges |
3:15 p.m. | WATVA Annual Business Meeting |
4:00 p.m. | Online Auction Ends |
5:00 p.m. | Evening Banquet Dinner |
6:00 p.m. | Trail Ambassador Cadet Pilot Program Announcement & Special Awards Night Celebration |
Expo 1 & 2: Saturday evening dinner and presentation of awards for Trail Ambassador program, WATVA awards and other presentations.
This will be a casual and fun evening full of laughs, community and great food.
It's time to wrap up the weekends activity with a town-hall style review. During this meeting we will discuss what we liked, didn't like and plans for the remainder of the year / next years annual meeting. This session is open to the public as we love to hear feedback on how you enjoyed (or didn't) the annual convention.
The 2024 WATVA Annual Meeting will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Stevens point.
Team Winnebagoland - Oshkosh
Rob's Performance - Johnson Creek
Fuel Powersports- West Bend
Cedar Creek Motorsports - Cedarburg
Action Power Sports- Waukesha
Verne's Kawaski of Antigo- Antigo
Engelhart's - Madison
Zacho Sports- Chippewa Falls
Vetesnik's - Richland Center
Mad City Power Sports- DeForest
2 Brother's- Onalaska
Antigo Yamaha- Antigo
Ecklund Motorsports- Appleton
Donahue Super Sports- Wisconsin Rapids
TA Motorsports- Francis Creek
Hexco Powersports- Oshkosh
Cozzy Polaris- Marinette
Ken's Sports- Kaukauna
Did you know most of the ATV and UTV trails, summer or winter, are maintained by a local club? Without our grassroots organizations, our states trail program would be vastly different from what we enjoy today.
by Author
Our association is proud to have over 100 local chapter clubs throughout Wisconsin. Check out our website at www.watva.org to find your local chapter ATV / UTV Club.
Riding during the winter season in Wisconsin can be a fantastic and rewarding experience. However, the dynamics of the winter climate in Wisconsin means that the riding opportunities are not uniform. Research is needed prior to riding someplace new in Wisconsin during winter.
by Author
Ice travel opens up riding areas to places in Wisconsin that lack off-road trails. However you must use your own judgment when it comes to ice safety.
Last updated: November 7th 2023
Aside from the regular regulations that apply to ATVs and UTVs, there are some other regulations you should be aware of if you're riding in Winter or on frozen surfaces.
by Author
Snowplowing with ATVs and UTVs
Wisconsin allows the use of ATVs and UTVs for snow removal throughout the state under the following restrictions:
http://dnr.wi.gov/files/PDF/pubs/le/LE0500.pdf
Information posted above was taken directly from the WI DNR
Aside from the regular regulations that apply to ATVs and UTVs, there are some other regulations you should be aware of if you're riding in Winter or on frozen surfaces.
by Author
Wisconsin allows ATVs and UTVs to ride on frozen surfaces of any navigable, designated waterways. This makes using ATVs and UTVs for ice fishing very popular.
Before you head out on the ice, you will want to check with local resources on the latest ice conditions. The Internet is a great resource for checking on ice depth and conditions, however you will want to make sure the information you gather is accurate and timely. There are a few great sites that not only give you ice conditions, but user reports on how well the fish are biting!
Studding your tires for better traction can improve your performance on frozen surfaces. Make sure you follow the proper instructions for installation and maintenance on studs. If you do have studs on your vehicle, make sure to stay on the ice. Studded tires can be very harmful to any trail surface, especially groomed snow!
Tracked vehicles can be very useful for winter riding (however they are not allowed on any public trail). Make sure to keep the tracks maintained per the manufacturers guidelines!
Riding on snow
Riding on snow can be a highly enjoyable experience but also presents its own set of hazards that are unique to winter reason riding.
ATVs and UTVs work great on packed snow, however can struggle in fresh snow. If you're traveling on an unpacked surface, the snow can accumulate and pack under the frame of the vehicle, eventually lifting it off the ground. Furthermore, if your machine leaves a packed surface it can quickly become stuck in loose snow.
Properly maintained and treaded tires will greatly help with traction on snow. Make sure you have the proper tires before heading out on a ride.
A winch can be a valuable asset to have on your machine during winter riding. Making sure the winch is in proper working order and that the cable is functional is critical. Unspooling and inspecting your winch cable is a great way to make sure it will be ready when you need it. Furthermore, spooling your winch cable properly will increase the life of the cable and reduce any chance of a mechanical issue should you need it while out on a trail. Remember to follow the safety guidelines for proper winching as a snapped cable can injure someone.
The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association always suggests taking a hands on safety course. Understanding how your machine handles (in both dirt and snow conditions) will increase your level of overall safety while riding. Remember, if you have an accident or breakdown in winter, your at a higher risk of weather related exposure injuries.
Download this information in a booklet form by clicking "Download File" below.
When?
Friday, November 3rd, 2023
Where?
Road America, Elkhart Lake Wisconsin
N7390 WI-67, Plymouth WI 53073
Map / Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ti8cy9yCu9UL1kDW8
Inviting Leaders & Professionals from:
Program Agenda:
11:00 a.m.
Lunch by Parker Johns: HICKORY SMOKED SANDWICH BUFFET
Each guest is served one sandwich. Choice of two meats and two sides.
Meats: Pulled Pork; Beef Brisket; Turkey; Spicy Andouille Sausage; Smoked Chicken Breast.
Served with ciabatta buns, pickles, and a choice of 3 BBQ sauces.
Meal Cost: $30 per person.
12:00 p.m.
Live Statewide Raffle
Win exciting prizes! Up for grabs:
1:00 p.m. - Meeting Commences
End of Meeting, Take 3 Laps Around Road America:
Opt for a thrilling sunset ride around the Road America track.
$30 per personal vehicle.
The Road America Sunset Cruise at Road America is a leisurely, low-speed, 3-lap experience of the iconic 4-mile track with your own vehicle. It is the perfect opportunity to experience one of the premier road courses in the country. This relaxing on-track opportunity is a bucket list experience for locals and fans world-wide!
What You Need to Know:
What To Do:
All drivers are expected to operate their vehicles in a responsible manner. Any driver deemed a danger to themselves, or others will be immediately removed from the track.
Why Attend The Business Leaders Conference?
The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association is dedicated to fostering relationships and synergies between business and tourism leaders. This afternoon promises an enriching experience filled with updates, insights, and opportunities tailored for you and your business.
RSVP
To ensure your spot and help us with our preparations, kindly RSVP by 10/20.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wisconsin-atv-utv-association-business-leaders-conference-tickets-705503298357?aff=oddtdtcreator
Together, let's drive Wisconsin's ATV/UTV program to new heights!
When you register your ATV and / or UTV for the first time, you might receive a handy little booklet from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources which explains the current laws within the state. If you didn't, here is what it looks like: https://widnr.widen.net/s/zd9trpj55s/2022-atv-utv-regulations
In the event you were not able to take the time to read over the entire document, here is a post that goes over the frequently asked questions regarding ATV / UTV laws within the state.
This is not a complete list of state ATV / UTV laws, only those that are most commonly asked about.
Looking to hand this information out at an upcoming meeting? Download the PDF file here!
Friday night is our welcome reception and early check-in for our WATVA members. Join us starting at 6:00 p.m. in the commons area.
New for 2023, come join our trail ambassador team alpha and team bravo go head to head in a friendly Family Feud gameshow! Hosted by Northwest Regional Coordinator Greg Olson, the gameshow features questions themed after ATV / UTV riding in Wisconsin.
The gameshow begins at 7:00 p.m.
Expo 4 |
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7:30 a.m. | Conference Check-In Silent Auction Begins |
8:45 a.m. | Welcoming guest speaker Stevens Point Mayor Mike Wiza, Pledge of Allegiance, Introductions & Workshop Overviews |
9:00 a.m. | Keynote speaker - Anne Sayers, Secretary of the Dept of Tourism |
9:20 a.m. | Adam Payne, Secretary of the Dept of Natural Resources |
9:40 p.m. | |
10:00 a.m. | Introducing Kristen Almer Co-Founder and Executive Director of the RideSafe Foundation, powered by BRP. Announcement of a new partnership in conjunction with a safety outreach program involving our trail ambassadors, safety instructors and club representatives. |
10:20 a.m. | Lt Jacob Holsclaw, OHV Administrator Public Safety & Resource Protection WI DNR |
10:30 a.m. | Rob McConnell & Randy Harden to introduce "Let's Ride - Wisconsin" program. |
11:00 a.m. | Lt Jacob Holsclaw presents and introduces "Officer of the Year." |
12:00 p.m. | Lunch & silent auction continues |
1:00 p.m. | Silent auction concludes |
1:15 p.m. | Silent auction results posted |
Please note, times and locations are subject to change.
Expo 4 | |
1:30 p.m. | Outdoor Skills Trainers (OSTs) WI DNR - OSTS oversee the safety education programs that include ATV/UTV/OHM/snowmobile courses. These safety specialists are responsible for recruiting, training, and monitoring the services of safety program instructors. Learn about upcoming instructor workshops, mini-academies and/or how to become recertified and why it's important on many different levels. Instructors will work with trail ambassadors in the new "Let's Ride - Wisconsin" outreach program. General overview on laws and OHV Administrator questions. |
2:30 p.m. | "How and What" to look for when purchasing your next ATV or UTV. Everything from what kind of ATV / UTV options you have to the trailer you're going to need to tow it. Accessories? They are everywhere! Learn more about them, including some handy medical gear you might want to have. Presented by: Tom Van Zeeland of Team Winnegaboland Tim Lamers of Chilton Trailers Amanda Pulvermacher - Trail Ambassador |
3:30 p.m. | WATVA Annual Meeting The annual meeting for the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association. This meeting includes our reports for they previous year, projections for the upcoming year and reports from the various partners. |
4:30 p.m. |
Expo 1 & 2: Saturday evening dinner and presentation of awards for Trail Ambassador program, WATVA awards and DNR Warden of the Year.
Come enjoy a provided meal and video replay of 2022. This will be a casual and fun evening full of laughs, community and great food.
Basics of the Trail / Route Ambassador program, overview of duties including patrols, working Welcome Centers, different training options, and roles of club or area coordinators designed to help streamline field day training. Overview and answer questions about the three different levels of the ambassador program.
Trail Ambassador Rescue and Recovery team information.
For those that are already trail ambassadors and would like to become part of our rescue and recovery team, please stop in to learn more about the program and hear about some upcoming exciting trainings.
Trail Ambassador Radios
Learn about a great new partnership with a statewide repeater network allowing our trail ambassadors to communicate throughout the state. Update on radio funding.
Trail Ambassador Tools Update
IAmResponding app, What3Words and updated report form which includes survey tracking for 2023.
Presented by:
Adam Harden - Deputy Administrator for Trail Ambassador Program
It's time to wrap up the weekends activity with a town-hall style review. During this meeting we will discuss what we liked, didn't like and plans for the remainder of the year / next years annual meeting. This session is open to the public as we love to hear feedback on how you enjoyed (or didn't) the annual convention.
The 2023 WATVA Annual Meeting will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Stevens point.
If you plan on staying overnight, make sure to mention WATVA for a discounted rate!
1001 Amber Ave
Stevens Point, WI 54482
1. Team Winnebagoland- Oshkosh
2. Rob's Performance- Johnson Creek
3. Fuel Powersports- West Bend
4. Cedar Creek- Cedarburg
5. Action Power Sports- Waukesha
6. Milwaukee Powersports- Oak Creek
7. Engelhart's- Madison
8. Zacho Sports- Chippewa Falls
9. Vetesnik's- Richland Center
10. Mad City Power Sports- DeForest
11. 2 Brother's- Onalaska
12. Jay's Powercenter-Reedsburg
13 JC Powersports- Crivits
14. Feldman's Sales & Service- Howards Grove
15. Mittelstaedt Sports & Marine- LaValle
16. Ritchie Implement- Cobb
17. TA Motorsports- Francis Creek
18. Hexco Powersports- Oshkosh
19. Airtec Sports Inc- Eau Claire
The following are economic impact studies that have been conducted to showcase the economic benefits ATVs and UTVs are towards a community.
The purpose of this study was to obtain trail surface preferences of ATV and UTV users of the Jackson County trail network and to solicit feedback about their trail experiences.
The purpose of this study was to assess the economic impact of users of the Jackson County trail network and to solicit feedback from riders about their experience. Survey data were collected by intercept interviews with trail users during the 2015 trail season (May 16 to October 15).
Published by: The Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce
Prototype statistics from the Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account (ORSA) released by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) show that the outdoor recreation economy accounted for 2.0 percent ($373.7 billion) of current-dollar GDP in 2016 (table 1). In addition, the outdoor recreation economy grew 3.8 percent in 2016, compared to growth of 2.8 percent in the overall economy.
Published by: University of Wisconsin – Madison/Extension, Department of Urban and Regional Planning
Motorized trail use is an important activity throughout the Lake States and is an important component of outdoor recreation in Wisconsin. As an enjoyable activity for all ages, it represents a particularly important form of outdoor recreation for older adults. The presence of places to ride and trails that connect communities provides these recreationists with a varied and enjoyable landscape within which to enjoy the Wisconsin outdoors. Motorized use trails also provide important assets for the development of tourism within rural communities.
In this report, we raise issues relevant to motorized recreational use of trails and the communities that find themselves affected by these trail users. We do this from a community development context and focus on the developmental attributes of trail user impacts as an externally driven community economic stimulus. As evidence, we support this with case study research of the Cheese Country Trail in Green, Lafayette, and Iowa Counties of southwestern Wisconsin.
Published by: Department of Urban & Regional Planning, University of Wisconsin-Madison/Extension
In an attempt to gather more information about Wisconsin's ATV riders, the Department of Tourism partnered with the Wisconsin All-Terrain Vehicle Association (WATVA) and the University of Wisconsinís Department of Urban and Regional Planning to gather marketing and economic impact information. The objectives of the research were: 1) to define an ATV rider (age, educational level, and residence); 2) to describe characteristics of the ATV trip (length of overnight stays, overnight accommodations, and party size), 3) to identify the userís reasons for being in the area and other attractions/activities they will participate in while on this trip; 4) to assess the importance of various aspects of ATV trail riding; 5) to measure user expenditures in the area; and 6) to determine the economic impact of nonresident visitors in the area.
Using the data from the 2003/4 study, we updated the number for current registrations and inflation. Click the file below to download. There is also a video explaining the then to now economic update.
IRVINE, Calif., — Motorcycling, ATV riding, and side-by-side driving are among the country's five largest traditional or conventional outdoor recreation activities, when ranked by economic output, according to data released last week by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
This was the first time that the BEA provided preliminary data on economic contribution in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, demonstrating how important outdoor recreation is to both local business as well as the nation's gross domestic product.
And, it's a growth sector.
According to the BEA release, its Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account "shows that inflation-adjusted (real) GDP for the outdoor recreation economy grew by 3.9 percent in 2017, faster than the 2.4 percent growth of the overall U.S. economy. Real gross output, compensation, and employment all grew faster in outdoor recreation than for the economy as a whole."
The bureau defines "conventional" outdoor recreation as activities done for pleasure, such as camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing, and involving some physical effort.
Sport | Economic Output |
Boating / Fishing | $20.9 billion |
RVing | $16.9 billion |
Motorcycling / ATVing / SxS | $9.1 billion |
Hunting / Shooting / Trapping | $8.8 billion |
Equestrian | $7.8 billion |
"We have long known that motorcycling, ATV riding and side-by-side driving are major contributors to the economy, to our country's GDP, in so many ways," said Tim Buche, president and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council. "We boost local economies, too, and not just through powersports dealers and retailers. Our enthusiasts book hotel stays, pay park fees, buy food, supplies, and other gear they need for all sorts of great outdoor adventures. All of that makes them, and our industry, a powerful economic engine that merits the attention of policymakers and those who manage public lands."
Upcoming Regional Meetings
Northeast Regional Meeting & Ride hosted by the Lakeland ATV UTV Club
Saturday August 7th, 2021. Sign in starts at 9:30 a.m. with the meeting starting at 10:00 a.m.
Woodruff Town Hall, 1418 1st Ave,. Woodruff, WI 54568
Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/xuBZdWndzFsn1T4j9
Northwest Regional Meeting & Ride hosted by the Great Divide Riders ATV Club
Saturday August 21st, 2021.Sign in starts at 9:30 a.m. with the meeting starting at 10:00 a.m.
Drummond Lake Campground, 52455 Drummond Lake Rd, Drummond, WI 54832
Directions: https://g.page/DrummondLakeCampground?share
Southwest Regional Meeting & Ride hosted by the Sauk Ridge Runners ATV Club
Saturday September 25th, 2021.
More information to follow.
Southeast Regional Meeting & Ride hosted by the Kettle Moraine ATV Association.
Saturday October 30th, 2021.
More information to follow.
Upcoming Events
WATVA VIP Ride
Friday, October 8th. Sign in starts at 10:00 a.m. with a lunch at 11:00 a.m.
Dyracuse Recreational Park, Town of Rome, WI
To view our episodes, click the play button below. We record each episode live on Facebook. You can view our upcoming episodes here or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/watva/videos). Please note, dates are subject to change.
Episode 1: February 9th, 2021
Hosts: Mike Biese, Adam Harden, Randy Harden
Guests: None
Topics: News and updates, Electric UTV's, UTV weight limit and town road damages.
Episode 2: February 23rd, 2021
Hosts: Mike Biese, Greg Olson, Adam Harden, Randy Harden
Guests: Lt. Martin Stone, WI DNR OHV Program Administrator
Topics: News and updates, two-person riding on ATV's and the new law that surrounds it.
Episode 3: March 10th, 2021
Hosts: Mike Biese, Greg Olson, Adam Harden, Randy Harden
Guests: None
Topics: Annual Meeting Preview
Episode 4: March 24th, 2021
Hosts: Mike Biese, Greg Olson, Adam Harden, Randy Harden
Guests: Jeff Kobinsky - Chippewa Valley ATVers
Topics: Wisconsin Clubs Overview
Wisconsin has over 400,000 registered all terrain and utility terrain vehicles. Each vehicle is a potential customer to your business.
Our riders travel throughout Wisconsin for that perfect ride. Often times, the rider is unaware of businesses that welcome our sport.
Often times our riders are looking for a specific parking spot, a wash station or a place to put their safety gear. Our riders are also aware that they may have some dirt on their clothing from time to time, and they don't want to walk into a business that doesn't recognize dirt as part of our recreation.
The Trail Town program was developed to point our riders towards businesses that support the off-highway motorized community.
Our program is published throughout Wisconsin, online and in print, so our riders know where they are welcome to bring their hard earned money. Trail Town is a service that consumers, businesses, manufacturers and tourism partners benefit from.
If your business is located on or near a trail, there might be potential customers literally riding right by you. Trail Town will help inform riders that you are welcome to ATV and UTV traffic!
A certification to the Trail Town program costs each location $350. This package includes the certification to the program (if all of the criteria has been met), one 12" by 12" sign, one 5" by 5" window decal and a listing on our digital and print media outlets.
Each location must renew their certification annually. With this renewal, each location receives a new yearly decal for their certification sign and continuation on our digital and printed media outlets.
Dealership certification includes a membership into the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association. They receive not only a Trail Town listing, but listing with WATVA (online and in print).
Pricing Breakdown
Business: $350 | Dealer: $425 |
Renew: $175 | Renewal: $250 |
If you're looking for custom signs, let us know! We can design and manufacture the right sign for your business.
Trail Town members also receive an additional 10% on advertising with the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association.
The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association has three awards that are given out each year during our annual meeting. They are named after passed individuals that have had a substantial impact to our ATV / UTV program throughout the years. It's the highest honor we can bestow upon these individuals to remember their own dedication and sacrifices for our trail systems.
If you know someone that should be nominated for an award, click here.
This award is to recognize certified Trail Patrol Ambassador's that have demonstrated extraordinary volunteer efforts that reflect proudly on the Trail Patrol Ambassador program, as well as highlighting their role(s) that prominently define their work as an Ambassador for our sport.
The images below are from the Roger Steinbach trail dedication.
This award is to recognize individuals, couples, businesses or clubs that demonstrate ongoing efforts that follow the WATVA vision, mission and operating values, focusing on programs and efforts that educate the public while being role models showcasing a positive image of our sport.
This award recognizes efforts that mentor and involve our youth in ways that encourage them to be an integral part of our positive future.
This award is to recognize outstanding leadership, dedication and support for the ATV / UTV program in Wisconsin. The President of the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association chooses recipients of this award based on direct interactions with the state association.
Please complete the form below to nominate someone for an Award of Excellence.
After so many meetings too numerous to count, our WATVA leadership team has brought forward numerous registration program updates, corrections, and changes that were asked of us by many different program partners.
On February 20th, our Senate bill was passed. On February 21st, our Assembly bill was passed. We would like to thank those that helped with the call to action and supported us in this bill. We are awaiting the Governors signature into law.Act 183
The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association is requesting a bill that makes adjustments to the state's ATV / UTV program based on the need to adapt and grow the program for expanded trail access.
This legislation enhances the ability to improve, update, and adjust to the evolution and growth of the ATV / UTV registration program in Wisconsin.
Since the 2012 legislation passed that permanently introduced and registered the Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV aka Side x Side), our organization has been gathering input from our multitude of local clubs, trail ambassadors, associated businesses, tourism affiliates, federal, state, county and local units of government that deal with our recreational industry of ATV UTV owners.
This legislation is a package of multiple upgrades and changes that address the continuing growth of our registration numbers, providing solutions necessary to better manage the registration program into the future.
The following bullet points capture the majority of changes being proposed for our ATV / UTV program (for further explanation, see the additional pages in this document):
Low pressure tires definition in current statute is no longer relevant because of technology changes in ATV UTV suspensions. Tire technology itself has changed dramatically including radial designs with a plethora of different tread options. These facts, along with the reality of the recent trend of having thousands of miles of road route expansions, make low pressure tires a definition no longer needed.Another factor is the multi-passenger UTVs requiring the newest tire technology where as required air pressure is much different than on single passenger ATVs. The simple answer is to stipulate the definition be "tire" which allows the latest tire and design technology to address machine needs based on different uses and models.
Dating back to 2007 through 2011, a time when we here in Wisconsin were conducting the pilot testing to determine if the UTVs were compatible with our ATV trail footprints, the UTV industry had yet to develop certain standards that we could consider using in our definitions as the legislature made the UTV registration permanent in 2012. One such subject was in defining "where" to measure maximum width of the machines...Since that time, the industry has now caught up, they added a width measurement standard which this legislation adopts for consistency that benefits our riders, dealerships, and law enforcement professionals alike.
The UTV popularity with its appeal and diversity, including utilitarian work purposes for many local and county governments is addressed with this legislation. It eases the process originally designed more for public trail and route use versus these units serving as work vehicles for these local units of government. If the government entity clearly designates the machine is owned by their government entity, under this change they would no longer be tasked with the registration process and subsequent identification requirements that trail riders are. This streamlined update also allows leased vehicles to be included whether being used for utilitarian, emergency or enforcement purposes. It further clarifies when being used for emergency response uses, the current requirements for passenger restrictions, seat belts, helmets etc. are not required.
A dangerous trend has developed with the advancement in aftermarket and original equipment auxiliary lighting technology. High intensity lights are being added with no requirement for dimming lights to oncoming traffic. This has resulted in multiple complaints and dangerous situations. Another issue being addressed has to do with a different kind of aftermarket lighting. This language specifies that only emergency response vehicles are permitted to have flashing red or blue lights on trail systems, staying consistent with road route compliance. Currently auxiliary light options are being sold and used with red and blue colors by the general public, this legislation fixes that omission.
Lighted whips are still legal, however they are restricted in color to Amber or white (forward facing). This is to stay consistent with road route laws that already prohibit certain colors of lights.
The following rules language specifies the new lighting requirements:
23.33 (6) (cd) Except as provided in sub. (11m), no person may operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle that is equipped with any of the following:
1. A lamp that emits any color of light other than white or amber and that is visible from directly in front of the all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle.
2. A lamp that emits any color of light other than red, yellow, amber, or white and that is visible from directly behind the all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle.
3. A flashing, oscillating, or rotating lamp that emits any color other than yellow or amber.
Because ATV UTV riding networks include thousands of miles of routes that intermix and combine with trail systems, currently riders are required to have headlights lit for routes but not on trail systems. Some trails are under thick tree canopies that make for a darker riding condition. When combined with dusty scenarios, it enhances everyone's safety to require headlights lit on trails as well as routes. This is another example of making the ATV UTV law consistent, whether riding on trails or routes, the law will now be the same.
Currently there is no statutory requirement in 23.33 that requires trail riders to comply with stop, yield, or other regulatory sign on our trail systems. The ATV UTV program registration program that started in 1986, never anticipated the growth we've had and continue to experience. Our total number of machines registered is approximately 400,000 strong and still growing. Most riders aren't aware there are no requirements to comply with regulatory signs on trail systems but as we keep expanding, it's high time to correct this omission. In the early years, there was little chance or need to have this provision, that's not the case nowadays. Another adjustment to make the law consistent whether on road routes or trail networks.
A major benefit to the business community, as well as the Wisconsin general economy, depends on attracting riders from out of state as well as new riders in Wisconsin coming into this type of outdoor recreation. A major tool that all riders seek are "where the riding opportunities exist" by way of a statewide riding area map. For these specialized maps to be effective, they need to be shipped to tourism centers, registration locations as well other tourist attractions where riders and potential riders can obtain them to make their travel plans accordingly. The state association has been able to secure temporary funding to produce these statewide maps, proving they are a desired and sought-after product. This update allows for a stable funding source for a statewide map using the stability of the ATV UTV registration program, self-funded to promote our own trail networks. This update also updates eligibility for a statewide app which is the current trend in society. As well, the self-funded ATV account would make eligible the acquisition to secure safety and public awareness signage that are currently not being displayed. This update also provides for communications equipment needed to enhance the safety and productivity for the dedicated volunteers doing trail and ambassador work in the back-country of Wisconsin.
With the growing popularity of the enclosed cabs on the side x side UTVs, winter trail riding has increased greatly. In some areas of the state, the consumer is purchasing a UTV versus a snowmobile as it can be used year-round. The original UTV laws did not anticipate heated and enclosed cabs or winter use at all. This update adds an increase for the UTV side of winter funding of $100 per mile even if the winter trail is not used in the summer season. Likewise, this update provides for a new type of winter trail that may not necessarily be shared with the snowmobile community, referred to as a frozen ground winter trail. This new opportunity will apply to areas of the state that receive the cold weather but light snow cover.
Click the link below to download a PDF of the flowchart, including a page that will estimate your maintenance dollars per mile with the current system and the proposed system.
Summer trail maintenance dollars will be increased by $100 per mile on the UTV side of the program, increasing the total maximum amount for maintenance to increase by 14% or up to a maximum of $800 per mile. With increased traffic and larger UTVs, this increase is necessary to sustain our ability to maintain our resources.
The original registration program of the 1980s could never had predicted the ever changing and developing ATV UTV industry. Equipment manufacturer's now build many different models and sizes, some designed for use out west in desert and/or wide-open type riding while other models are designed for narrower and smaller trail systems which better describe our woods riding here in Wisconsin. This situation has created confusion for the consumer who can legally purchase a machine that is outside of our state description of what a legal UTV or ATV is, but they later discover they can't ride it when their registration application is eventually returned. In some cases, however, the application / applicant for legal registration omits a certain model designation, yet with other examples of falsified models listed and being sent to the DNR registration bureau. Unfortunately, the state estimates as many as 10,000 machines may have already been registered when the fact is the machine is too wide or too heavy to meet the agreed upon size dimensions our trail footprints are planned around and built upon because of the falsified applications. Eventually the consumer discovers they either purchased a machine that was outside the legal parameters to be registered, only to discover they can no longer register or ride on our trail networks or even worse they are cited when discovered when riding out on the trail networks. The unscrupulous retailer bears no financial recourse under current law, simply because the original registration program is outdated. Under our change, we are clarifying where someone can be tried in a court of law for falsifying registration information.
11. ATVs that are not designed from the manufacturer for passengers are no longer allowed on the trail (it had already been illegal on route systems for some time).
During the bill signing, a line item veto power was executed which changed how the law was worded.
The new law made riding with passengers on an ATV or UTV that was not originally manufactured for passengers illegal on public trails (it was already illegal on roadways). However, the new law does allow passenger use on ATVs or UTVs not originally intended for passengers during an emergency situation for public safety entities. This would help protect those entities from lawsuit's that might arise during these types of operations, which occur throughout the year during rescue missions in remote areas.
Also adding to the confusion was the fact that passenger use on an ATV or UTV that was not originally intended for passengers was already illegal on public road routes and had been illegal for some time.
Sometimes the complexities that surround an issue are not as they first appear. We might think we understand what we're dealing with but when we dig deeper and pull away the layers, we often find something completely different.
To make a situation more complicated, others may disagree with how we want to approach the situation. A proper situation appraisal is an important step because often issues like this are found to have a tangle of divergent elements, varied opinions, different priorities or possibilities for solutions toward different needs.
Below is the wording from Act 183 regarding passenger use on All-Terrain Vehicles:
SECTION 12. 23.33 (3) (em) of the statutes is amended to read:
Act 183
23.33 (3) (em) With Except as provided in sub. (11m), with a passenger riding in or on any part of a an all−terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle that is not designed or intended to be used by passengers while the all−terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle is being operated on an all−terrain vehicle route, all−terrain vehicle trail, or roadway as authorized in this section.
In a press release after signing Act 183, Governor Evers wrote:
"I have exercised the partial veto in Section 25, relating to being a passenger on an allterrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle on public and private land. Current law prohibits a person from being a passenger on a utility terrain vehicle, regardless of location, if said vehicle is not designed for passengers. Section 25 would prohibit a person from being a passenger on an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle that is not designed for passengers only on an all-terrain vehicle route, all-terrain vehicle trail, frozen water, or an authorized highway. This section would specifically not apply the prohibition to private property.
I am partially vetoing the requirement that the prohibition on unauthorized passengers only applies to designated routes and trails because I object to allowing the potentially unsafe operation of all-terrain vehicles and utility terrain vehicles in undesignated areas and on private land. If an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle is not designed for passengers, then it should not be operated with passengers, except for those exceptions provided for in Section 33. The safe transportation of passengers, regardless of location, is essential to the prevention of injuries and fatalities associated with all-terrain and utility terrain vehicle use.
by Governor Evers
We have included the press release issued by Governor Evers below.
Furthermore, the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association was recently made aware that this law already existed for any road route (meaning it was already illegal to carry a passenger on any road route in Wisconsin). WATVA was not aware of this law change.
Passenger use on ATV's varies between states. For example, Michigan, Iowa, California does not allow passengers unless the ATV is originally manufactured for a passenger. Minnesota has some restrictions depending on which type of ATV it is (they have Class 1 and Class 2 ATVs).
The ATV Safety Institute advises that adding passengers to an ATV that is not designed for passengers changes the center of gravity and impacts the ability for the rider to safely control the machine. For best riding tips and a guide on safety, please check out the ATV Safety Institutes guide by following the following link: https://atvsafety.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/ASI-ATV-Tips-Guide-2018.pdf
Last Edited May 26th 2020 at 14:15.
The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association is now available on iOS and Google Play. With our app, you can check out county riding opportunities, catch up on the latest ATV / UTV news in Wisconsin, learn about our laws & regulations and learn some fantastic pointers for new riders.
The information on this page is intended as a reference for clubs and municipalities that are seeking information on ATV & UTV sign topics.
DNR Trail Signing Handbook (PDF 8 MB)
ATV Route Guideline and Suggestions (PDF 272 KB)
Highway Maintenance Manual (PDF 246 KB)
Section 9: Right-of-Way Use and Permits
Section 10: STH Connections
Subject 11: ATV Routes and Trails
If you're looking for guidance on ATV / UTV road signage, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation has two pages that explain in detail the rules and sign information needed.
Motorists and ATV/UTV Riders Urged to Share the Road Safely
Motorists could be sharing the road more frequently in some areas with all-terrain and utility-terrain vehicles (ATV/UTV) under a change in state law granting local authority to allow use on roads within territorial boundaries. The state Departments of Transportation and Natural Resources urge motorists and ATV/UTV operators to stay cautious... Click here to read the full article.
All-Terrain Vehicles and Utility Terrain Vehicles
Wis. Stat. s. 23.33 allows all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) to operate on state highways in certain cases, which are detailed in items 1-3 below. Each one requires some type of local government ordinance to be enacted before ATV/UTV operation may occur. For the remainder of this webpage, ATVs and UTVs... Click here to read the full article.
Check out the latest events from the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association!
Northland Camp & Conference Center W10085 Pike Plans Road, Dunbar WI 54119 |
Click the link below to register for the Northeast Regional Meeting & Ride.
Barron County ATV Playground 1450 8 3/4 street, Almena, Wisconsin 54805 |
Click the link below to register for the Northeast Regional Meeting & Ride.
Click the link below to register for the Southeast Regional Meeting & Ride.
Click the link below to register for the 2019 VIP Ride.
This information is from our 2019 annual meeting & workshops, presented by Cathy Burrow from Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association Inc.
1539 N. 33rd Place, Suite A
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920)-694-0583
info@watva.org