A Guide to a Responsible and Safe Off-Roading Experience
Off-roading is an incredibly thrilling and exciting experience that allows you to explore otherwise inaccessible areas. But it's crucial to prioritize safety and responsibility while engaging in this activity. Taking the necessary precautions and being mindful of your surroundings ensure that your off-roading adventure is a fun and memorable experience. To learn more about it, we spoke with the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s OHV law enforcement officer and program coordinator, Micah White.
What is off-roading?
Officer White: Off-roading means driving on unpaved roads for recreational purposes. Many people enjoy the thrill and sense of adventure that this activity provides.
What is an off-highway vehicle (OHV)?
Officer White: Off-Highway Vehicles, commonly known as OHVs, are recreational motorized land vehicles used for off-road travel on unpaved roads. These vehicles should not be used on publicly maintained roads, streets, or highways. OHVs include all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility-type vehicles (UTVs).
ATV: Off-road motorized vehicles with three or four wheels and a handlebar. They only have one seat, and it’s for the operator/driver seat. These are single-rider vehicles.
UTV: Off-road motorized vehicles with four (or more) wheels. They are referred to as “side-by-sides” because they have bench or bucket seats and can fit several passengers. UTVs also have fully or partially enclosed cabins.
Many hunters utilize OHVs to get down rough roads quickly and more comfortably than in a truck. However, some individuals use them for racing and other irresponsible behavior, which directly impacts responsible riders, wildlife and nature.
What should people know before riding or getting on an OHV?
Officer White: It is essential to understand there are rules for off-roading. Some individuals may assume that if there are no speed limit signs, there is no speed limit, but this is not accurate. The correct way to enjoy this activity is by being responsible and following the law.
Driving too fast can prevent you from safely avoiding hazardous situations, cause you to lose control of the vehicle, and endanger your life and your passengers. It can also result in a citation for driving beyond what’s considered prudent and reasonable speed. Please remember that this applies to all roads, not just unpaved ones.
Regardless of speed, always wear your seatbelt when driving an OHV, as you can be ejected and seriously hurt - or even killed - if you're involved in an accident. We urge people to understand the risks and necessary safety measures before riding or getting on an OHV.
Before getting into an OHV, you must understand the vehicle first. For instance, ATVs are primarily built for the driver (some are made for two people, though it’s not common); therefore, only the driver should ride it. You'd need a UTV (also called a "side-by-side") to seat more people. The number of seats in your OHV is a good indicator of how many passengers (if any) you can legally and safely have.
Some people don't realize it, but individuals under 18 must wear helmets whenever driving or riding on an OHV; including dirt bikes, ATVs, and side-by-sides.
During one of our patrols two weekends ago, we witnessed an ATV carrying a father and two young girls. As we pulled the driver over, we noticed that the girl in the back struggled to hold on and almost fell off while going down the road. While we understand people want to have fun, adhering to safety rules to prevent accidents is vital. We're especially concerned about kids' safety as they may be unable to decide for themselves.
Has the Arizona Game and Fish Department seen an increase in OHV activity? If so, why do you think that is?
Officer White: I received the latest figures from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) regarding the number of registered OHVs for 2022. The data shows an 88% surge in OHV registrations since 2020, a significant increase. In Arizona, there are now approximately 225,000 OHVs.
Due to the COVID pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, people were encouraged to spend time outdoors as indoor activities were not possible - and they did. Some people opted to explore water activities, others preferred hiking or running, and others fell in love with off-roading.
Does off-roading cause any damage to natural habitats or wildlife species?
Officer White: One of the most significant threats to wildlife and its habitat is the unethical – and illegal – behavior perpetrated by some people while off-roading. Unfortunately, some individuals act carelessly towards nature and humans by riding off the designated areas, creating new roads, and making “donuts” with their OHVs. These irresponsible users create safety hazards for other people while negatively affecting Arizona’s natural resources.
Staying on designated roads is essential to protect nature. Don’t create your own path or operate your OHV in non-designated areas – it is the law.
Is it legal to drive an OHV on a paved road?
It’s relevant to remember that many dirt roads are maintained roads and require street-legal registration and equipment, just like a paved road. Anyone wishing to operate their OHV on maintained roads and trails must register their machine as “street legal” through the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office. Street-legal registration comes with a motorcycle-endorsed license plate. The registration sticker displaying the valid month and year goes in the upper right corner. The OHV decal goes in the upper-left corner. And, don’t forget to follow the laws and regulations when recreating outdoors.
Can people go off-roading anywhere in the state, or are there specific areas in Arizona designated for this activity?
Officer White: Arizona is a beautiful place to explore, and the Arizona State Parks and Trails have done a great job creating a virtual map that shows all of the state’s off-roading destinations. Before heading to an off-road destination, we encourage people to first call or visit the National Forest’s website to ensure they’re aware of any additional laws, restrictions, or closures.
To learn more about OHV education, programs, laws, and more, we encourage people to visit our website, AZGFD.gov and click on the “Boating & OHV” tab.
Do you have any additional OHV safety recommendations?
Officer White: Creating beautiful memories with your loved ones while enjoying the great outdoors is a remarkable experience, and Arizona is a stunning location. However, it is crucial to approach this activity responsibly and safely to relish the experience fully.
Please decrease your speed and exhibit politeness toward others. Think about how your vehicle, speed, dust, or noise may affect others camping or having a picnic nearby. Remain on designated roads and trails, and ensure you wear a seatbelt. If your child is under 18, they must wear a helmet for safety, but we highly recommend that everyone wear one.
For more information, check AZGFD OHV guide.