City of Hamilton looks to ban ATV use on local roads
- Craig Clark
- 17 Sep 2020
The city is beginning the process to pass a bylaw that would ban all-terrain vehicles from all roads and highways in Hamilton.
Councillor Brad Clark says in a report by the Spectator that ATV use is becoming dangerous in upper Stoney Creek with riders whipping up and down side roads, shoulders, and highways.
Update – City staff confirmed that "Yes unfortunately, some individuals broke through the City fence & entered our Contractor’s site & stole (or tried to) their telehandler & 2 ATV’s' …."
— Environment Hamilton (@EnvHamilton) September 16, 2020
ATV riders have also been tearing up local farm fields with farmers regularly complaining about the vehicles destroying swales, which could cause flooding.
Other councillors echoed the concerns of dangerous ATV use resulting in many near misses with passersby.
Councillor Judi Partridge says that dirt bikes and ATVs often speed down subdivision roads and pathways in Waterdown.
There has also been numerous instances of riders ripping up front lawns and flower beds with Hamilton police not able to catch the culprit.
The bylaw would look to include local parks as well after councillors mentioned that field areas are often damaged by the vehicles.
Provincial legislation allows municipalities to pass bylaws that prohibit the use of ATVs on city highways, which includes all roads.
The motion to draft the bylaw received unanimous support from councillors and would include the ban of all terrain vehicles on all city highways. It would also look into a ban that would stop ATV use on private property without permission.
Farmers using an ATV for agricultural work would be exempt from the bylaw.
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