Scott County Sheriff’s Office clarifies ATV, UTV rules on county roads
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
SCOTT COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Scott County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents about rules for operating ATVs, UTVs and side-by-sides on public roads.
The sheriff’s office said the vehicles may legally be operated on Scott County-maintained roads as long as drivers follow applicable Missouri laws and county requirements.
That permission does not automatically apply to Interstate 55, U.S. Highway 61, state-numbered or state-lettered highways or streets within incorporated cities.
Requirements vary depending on how a vehicle is classified under Missouri law.
ATV operators on county roads must have a valid driver’s license and travel at less than 30 mph. ATVs must also have a fluorescent triangular safety flag extending at least 7 feet above the ground.
Operators and passengers younger than 18 must wear helmets. Passengers are generally prohibited unless the ATV is designed for more than one person or is being used for an authorized agricultural purpose.
Utility vehicle operators must have a valid driver’s license and travel at less than 45 mph. Passengers must use designated seats, and proper lighting is required when operating after dark.
Operators of qualifying recreational off-highway vehicles and side-by-sides must have a valid driver’s license. The vehicles must have working headlights and taillights and be equipped with a roll bar or roll cage. Drivers and passengers are required to wear seat belts.
Missouri law allows qualifying recreational off-highway vehicles to be operated within 3 miles of the operator’s primary residence, with restrictions for municipalities unless a city has authorized their use.
The sheriff’s office said all operators must follow posted speed limits, traffic signals, stop signs and other traffic laws.
Rules within incorporated cities are determined by local ordinances. Scott County’s authorization applies specifically to county-maintained roads.
The sheriff’s office is also reminding drivers that operating ATVs and similar vehicles while impaired is prohibited.
Sheriff Derick Wheetley encouraged residents to review Missouri statutes governing their specific type of vehicle before operating it on a public roadway.
