
(TIMMINS) The Timmins Police Service is reminding the public to operate Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs), including ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and recreational off-highway vehicles, safely and in accordance with the City of Timmins ORV By-Law following an increase in complaints and observations of ORVs being driven on city streets outside of permitted areas and conditions.
The by-law, approved by Timmins City Council in 2024, permits limited ORV access on designated west-end roadways to allow riders to connect with local trails and nearby services such as gas stations and restaurants. However, riders must follow all regulations in place to ensure the safety of motorists, pedestrians, and fellow trail users.
Under the by-law:
- ORVs are only permitted on designated routes
- ORV use on city roads is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- The maximum speed limit on city roads is 20 km/h
- Drivers must be at least 16 years of age and possess a valid driver’s licence
- A valid OFATV trail permit is required
- ORVs may only access roadways when local ATV trails are officially open
Police are also reminding riders that ORVs are not permitted to travel freely throughout the city and must be trailered to approved trail access points. Riders found operating ORVs outside of permitted areas may be stopped by police and will not be permitted to continue driving the vehicle. In these situations, the ORV may be required to be towed at the owner’s expense, with tow costs typically ranging between $600 and $700.
Failure to comply with the by-law, including operating ORVs outside designated routes, driving aggressively, or exceeding permitted speed limits, may result in enforcement action and fines of up to $1,000.
The Timmins Police Service supports responsible recreational riding and encourages all riders to work together to maintain safe access within the community while respecting residents, businesses, and roadway users.
For more information regarding the City of Timmins ORV By-Law, please visit: https://timminspolice.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ATV-By-law-2024.pdf