What regulatory changes went into effect on June 1, 2026?
The 2026 ATV/UTV Regulations can be found on the Wisconsin DNR site at the links below. Updates include:
- Operators and passengers are ALL REQUIRED to wear a seatbelt in a UTV.
- Intentionally causing damage with an ATV or UTV can cost you more than a fine – up to three times the cost to repair any damages. RIDE RESPECTFULLY!
- ATV or UTV operators may NOT tow objects bearing any person on a trail or route (i.e. passengers cannot ride in the box of a UTV).
Two exceptions to this regulation:- When towing persons on ice – speed must be limited to no more than 10 mph.
- Towing disabled ATVs or UTVs WITH occupants IS allowed.
- UTVs now have window tint restrictions which include:
- Windshield: The windshield may be tinted so long as the tinting is not reflective, permits passage through the windshield of at least 50% of the visible light striking the windshield and is only on the portion of the windshield above a line five inches underneath and parallel to the top of the windshield (aka: brow).
- Side Windows: The front side windows and vent may be tinted so long as the tinting is not reflective and permits passage through the window of at least 50% of the visible light striking the window.
- Rear Windows: The rear window and rear side windows may be tinted so long as the tinting is not reflective and permits passage through the window of at least 35% of the visible light striking the window.
- No person may operate OR be a passenger in an ATV or UTV without wearing glasses, goggles, or a protective face shield, except for ATVs or UTVs with windshields.
Speed Limits + Operational Restrictions
- You must slow your ATV/UTV to 10 mph or less when you are riding within 100 feet of any person who is not on a motorized vehicle.
- This includes, but is not limited to slowing for anglers, hikers, bicyclists, joggers, horses, etc. as well as for other ATV/UTV operators standing along the trail.
- You must slow your ATV/UTV to 10 mph or less when you are riding within 100 feet of an ice fishing shanty while on the ice.
- You must slow your ATV/UTV to 10 mph or less when you are riding within 150 feet of a home or dwelling, unless you are operating on a legal ATV road route.
- You must obey the posted trail speed limits at all times.
- You must obey the posted regular motor vehicle speed limit when operating within a highway or a reduced speed limit posted specifically for ATVs/UTVs that may be along the highway.