Several new laws in NR 64 that will be taking effect June 1. NR 64 had not been updated since 2012. This update brought UTV language into the code so that ATVs and UTVs are covered as well as provided consistency for law enforcement, DNR customer service staff and our public. Some of the changes include:

Administrative Updates:

• Clarifies that the definitions of “all-terrain vehicle,” “all-terrain vehicle route,” “all-terrain vehicle trail ” and “utility terrain vehicle” have the meanings given in statute.
• Updates the two-year registration period effective dates renewal to April 1 and March 31, respectively, to conform with s. 23.33 (2) (f), Wis. Stats. (had the old registration dates)
• Allows the department to revoke a registration or trail pass if the fee payment cannot be processed or collected.
• Adds the phrase “valid temporary operating” before “receipt” to clarify that an individual may operate an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle while in possession of a valid temporary operating receipt until permanent registration decals are received and permanently attached and displayed on the all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle.
• Requires utility terrain vehicle owners to notify the DNR of a change of address for vehicle registration.
• Replaces the term “all-terrain vehicle dealer” with the term “off-highway vehicle dealer,” which is created in this rule to clarify that the requirements to complete dealer applications for registration and to maintain dealer records apply to the sale of all-terrain vehicles and utility terrain vehicles.

Operational And Safety Updates:

• Adopts the disorderly operation standard contained in s. NR 45.05 (1) (a) 4., Wis. Adm. Code, for all-terrain vehicles and utility terrain vehicles.
• “In a manner which is unreasonably loud, disruptive, or otherwise interferes with peace, welfare, and safety, including unnecessary spinning or squealing of tires, revving of an engine, or blowing of a horn.”
• UTVs can now be sound tested.
• “No person may operate a utility terrain vehicle unless the operator and each passenger are wearing a safety belt installed by the manufacturer and fastened in a manner prescribed by the manufacturer of the safety belt that permits the safety belt to act as a body restraint.
• Prohibits using an ATV or UTV to tow objects bearing any person on a trail or route. Limits towing on ice to 10 mph.
• No person may operate or be a passenger in an ATV or UTV without wearing glasses, goggles or a protective face shield, unless the vehicle has a windshield. (hopefully this will encourage helmet use since this would often satisfy this requirement).
• ATV or UTV operators must maintain an unobstructed view through the windshield and windows when operating the vehicle.
• Establishes maximum window tint percentages for UTVs, substantially similar to requirements for motor vehicles in s. Trans 305.32 (5), Wis. Adm. Code.

These violations will be available in the next scheduled TraCS update.

For more information, see the DNR website.