Southern Utah is an off-roader’s paradise—locals know it, and so does everyone else. With endless red rock views, twisty trails, and terrain that begs to be explored, it’s no wonder people haul their rigs here year-round. But let’s keep it real—nothing kills the vibe of a perfect day in the dirt faster than seeing red and blue lights in your rearview.
Thankfully, our friends at Dirt Warriors took the initiative to get some answers straight from the source! Local law enforcement recently stopped by their shop to answer all your burning questions about OHV laws. We’ve gathered the top questions asked during the Q&A session and put them together in this handy guide.
So buckle up, rev your engines, and let’s dive in!
What is my machine class?
Do I need an OHV sticker if I’m street legal?
If it is street-legal an OHV sticker is not required in Utah.
What course is required for me to ride?
👉 Hands-on courses are available quarterly.
What is the helmet law for kids?
Can kids drive?
What is the speel limit on the dirt?
Can I drive on the hwy?
👉 50mph or less and need to be in the right lane if there is one.
👉 Pull over if 3-4 cars behind you so you’re not impeding traffic.
Are red and blue chase lights legal?
👉 Whip lights are similar laws. No flashing red and blue.
👉 Turn off extra lights when on the street.
What are the flag requirements?
A Few Extra Things to Keep in Mind
Before you hit the trails, it’s important to remember a few essentials beyond the laws. First, follow the OHV Code of Ethics: respect the land, wildlife, and other riders by staying on designated trails, leaving no trace, and keeping noise to a minimum near residential areas. Second, always pack the basics: a first-aid kit, extra water, tools for minor repairs, a map or GPS, and snacks—because no one likes a hangry rider. Finally, prioritize safety! Let someone know your riding plans, ride with a buddy, and wear proper safety gear, including helmets, gloves, goggles, and sturdy footwear. A little preparation goes a long way to ensure your off-road adventure stays fun, safe, and stress-free.
Courtesy & Ethics
Each rider must be good ambassadors for the sport. Generally, this means learning to share the trails with other users, as well as learning to take proper care of the environment where they ride.
- Protect riding privileges by staying on the trail. Avoid riding in wet meadows, on stream banks, or on steep erodible slopes.
- Avoid riding over small trees and shrubs. Trampled vegetation not only looks bad, but also damages critical wildlife habitat and contributes to soil erosion.
- Always yield the right of way to non-motorized trail users. When encountering other hikers or horses on the trail, pull over and shut off the engine. Remove your helmet and let them pass.
- Ride in the middle of the trail to avoid widening it. Trail widening is unsightly and expensive to repair. Help keep our trails beautiful.
- Do not alter the manufacturer’s muffler system. Loud exhaust systems are annoying to others using our public lands.
- Honor seasonal and permanent trail closures.
- When overtaking others, follow at a safe distance until they provide a signal to pass. Be courteous while passing. A little bump of the throttle can leave a shower of gravel and cloud of dust behind you.
- Never harass wildlife or domestic animals while riding. Always view wildlife from a respectful distance.
- Pack it in, pack it out.
- Wash machines after each ride to avoid spreading noxious weeds to new areas.
Safety Tips
By following a few simple rules, OHV riders can make certain that every trip is safe and enjoyable. We recommend the following safe riding guidelines:
- Always ride in control. Never attempt anything that is beyond your skill level or machine capability.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear. At a minimum, this should include a helmet, shatter resistant eye protections, long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and boots covering the ankle.
- Only carry passengers if an OHV is specifi cally designed to do so. Off-road motorcycles and most ATVs are designed to be ridden by only one rider. Carrying passengers can alter the balance of the machine and lead to loss of control.
- Always let someone know where you are going, or take someone with you.
- Riders should be able to straddle the machine with a slight bend in the knee while both feet are on the footrests. They should also be able to adequately reach the controls while turning. Riding a machine that is too big is a common cause of injury.
- Be prepared for an emergency. Always carry a fi rst-aid kit, survival equipment, tool kit, and spare parts when you ride. Don’t forget extra water and fuel.
- Check the weather forecast before leaving home. For winter riders, always check the avalanche forecast before venturing into the backcountry. For more information, visit the Avalanche Center website at utahavalanchecenter.org
- Never drink and ride. Alcohol and OHVs don’t mix and create a deadly and illegal combination.
Trip Planning Checklist
Like anything else, a safe and enjoyable OHV ride starts with proper planning. Always give an itinerary to family member or friend. Inspect your machine before every trip to make certain they are in top mechanical condition. Operators should be in good physical condition to withstand the rigors of an OHV riding experience. Carrying a few basic items will also help in the event of an emergency. The following checklist will help make every trip fun and safe:
- Plenty of extra water and food
- Extra fuel and oil
- A set of basic tools that fit your machine
- A basic first-aid kit
- Extra spark plugs
- A flashlight
- A tow strap or rope
- Waterproof matches
- Duct tape and electrical tape
- A tire repair kit
- A map, compass, and GPS
- Cell phone or two-way radios
- Camera to record your adventures
For extended trips consider the following:
- Spare throttle and brake cables
- Brake fluid
- Master links for chain repair
- A quality survival kit
- A spare tire or tube
We’re lucky to have such incredible terrain for off-roading here in Southern Utah, but with great trails comes great responsibility. By following these OHV laws, you can ensure a safe, fun experience for yourself and everyone else on the trail.
Big thanks to Dirt Warriors and our local law enforcement for shedding light on these frequently asked questions. If you’re still unsure about a specific rule, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local authorities or visit the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation website.
Now go hit those trails (legally) and enjoy the ride!🚗💨
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