The Linn County Board of Supervisors today approved an ordinance (PDF) allowing the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off-road vehicles on certain county roads in unincorporated Linn County. The approval followed multiple public input sessions. The vote passed 2-1 with Supervisors Brent Oleson and Stacey Walker in favor and Supervisor Ben Rogers opposed. The ordinance takes effect Friday, June 5, 2020.
“I’m a huge proponent of our parks, trails, and outdoor recreation and support most anything that gets people outdoors to enjoy their natural surroundings,” Supervisor Brent Oleson said.
“Through a lot of collaboration, we’ve come up with something workable for the public who have been asking for this for quite some time. In the future, if we have problems with a certain county road or any part of this ordinance, we can amend this ordinance.”
Supervisor Rogers voted against the ordinance noting safety concerns.
The ordinance contains many provisions, including:
- Operators of ATVs or off-road utility vehicles must have a valid driver’s license and be at least 16 years of age.
- An operator 18 years of age and under is required to take and pass an Iowa Department of Natural Resources approved ATV education course and must carry a valid safety certificate while operating the vehicle.
- Operators and passengers 18 years of age and under must wear an ATV safety helmet.
- Operators of ATVs or off-road utility vehicles cannot travel at a rate of speed greater than thirty-five (35) miles per hour.
- ATV or off-road utility vehicle operation may begin at sunrise and must cease at sunset.
For a complete list of the operation requirements and a list of restricted roads in unincorporated Linn County, read the full ordinance (PDF) on the Linn County website. A map of restricted roadways (PDF) is also available online.