The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners has approved a new Off-Road Vehicle ordinance.
The board says the new ordinance provides guidelines for ORV use to ensure everyone’s kept safe. It comes out of a collaboration between the county board and the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department and the Van Buren County Road Commission.
Commissioners say key provisions of the rules include the designation of some county roads where ORV use will be allowed, restrictions on speed, and hours of operation. The ordinance also requirements for ORV registration, equipment standards, and licensing to ensure the responsible use of off-road vehicles.
Commissioner Mike Chappell, who spearheaded this effort, says the “regulations will promote responsible recreation and minimize any potential conflicts between ORV users and other members of our community.”
The ordinance allows townships to opt out of allowing ORV use in their limits, and already, Bloomingdale and Waverly Townships have exercised the option. Therefore, ORV use on county roads in those townships is prohibited. Otherwise, the new ordinance takes effect immediately.
