Know Your Legal Rights is a bi-monthly column distributed by the State Bar of Wisconsin. It is sponsored by the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Lawyer Referral Service (LRS), which connects Wisconsin residents with lawyers throughout the state. To find an attorney in your area, visit wislaw.org.
By Attorney Jennifer Schank
As fall riding and hunting seasons get underway, you are riding an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle when the trail reaches a public road. Other riders turn onto the pavement. A route sign appears nearby.
Can you follow them?
Maybe. Wisconsin allows ATVs and UTVs on some public roads, but not every road is open to them. State law, local ordinances and posted signs may affect where and how you can ride.
When may I ride on a road?
ATVs and UTVs may generally operate only on roads officially designated as ATV and UTV accessible. Cities, villages, towns and counties may open roads to ATV’s and UTV’s and place local conditions on their use.
Rules may change when you cross into another community. The pavement may look the same. Legally, the route may not be.
Before riding, check the route map and ordinances for every community you will enter. Follow posted speed limits and regulatory signs.
Access to state highways is more limited. Interstate highways are not open to ATV or UTV travel.
Does my ATV or UTV need to be registered?
Generally, yes. Wisconsin public-use registration allows an ATV or UTV to operate legally on public trails, designated road routes and frozen waterways.
A publicly registered ATV or UTV must display DNR-issued decals on both sides of the vehicle and a registration plate on the rear. Riders should carry the registration card or temporary operating receipt with them.
Different registrations apply to vehicles used only on private property or for agricultural purposes. Nonresidents generally need a Wisconsin registration or trail pass to operate a UTV or ATV on a public roadway.
What rules changed in 2026?
Several requirements took effect June 1.
All UTV operators and passengers must wear seat belts. Operators may not tow an object carrying a person on a trail or route. Different limits apply when towing someone on ice.
UTV windows must meet new tinting standards. Required headlights and taillights must be kept in working condition.
Intentionally damaging property with an ATV or UTV may result in liability for as much as three times the cost of repairs.
Do I need a safety certificate?
It depends on your age and the vehicle.
An ATV operator who is at least 12 and was born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, generally must complete an approved safety course to ride in public areas.
For UTV operators, the certification requirement generally begins at age 16 for those born on or after that date. Operators must carry proof of certification and show it to law enforcement when asked.
Additional age and supervision rules apply to young riders. Parents should not assume that a child who may ride on private property also may operate on a public route.
How can I check the rules?
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources publishes current regulations,
registration requirements and safety-course information. Because local governments control many routes, also check municipal or county maps and ordinances.
When in doubt, contact the local government, sheriff’s department or a DNR conservation warden before riding.
Seeing a route sign is only the beginning. A lawful ride also depends on the registration, equipment, traffic, and local restrictions.
Jennifer M. Schank is an attorney with Fuhrman & Dodge, S.C., in Middleton. Practicing since 2010, she represents individuals and businesses in litigation, real estate, business, bankruptcy, debtor-creditor, and landlord-tenant matters.
Know Your Legal Rights is sponsored by the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Lawyer Referral Service, which helps connect the public with appropriate legal counsel. Learn more at wislaw.org.
This column provides general legal information, not legal advice. Laws may change. Consult an attorney about your specific situation.
