Wisconsin ATV And UTV Riders Face Increased Patrols This Weekend

ATV and UTV season is in full swing in Wisconsin, and if you are planning a ride this weekend, there are two things worth knowing before you head out.

First, several new laws took effect on June 1 that every rider needs to be aware of, including:

• All UTV occupants must now wear a seatbelt
• Towing any person on an ATV or UTV trail is now prohibited
• Intentionally damaging property with an ATV or UTV can result in up to three times the cost of repairs
• UTVs are now subject to window tint restrictions
• Eye protection is required for all occupants when no windshield is present

If you have not reviewed the full list of changes, now is a good time; details are available on the Wisconsin DNR's ATV and UTV regulations page.

Wisconsin ATV and UTV riders should also know that they will have some extra company on the trails this weekend.

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Extra Enforcement On Wisconsin Trails This Weekend

The Wisconsin DNR announced that more conservation wardens and county recreation deputies will be patrolling trails and routes June 5 through 7 as part of the statewide Think Smart Before You Start safety campaign.

The initiative focuses on accident reduction and prevention, with wardens specifically monitoring for speeding and operating while intoxicated.

The increased patrols come with good reason. To date in 2026, Wisconsin has recorded 15 ATV and UTV fatalities statewide, a number the DNR is working hard to bring down.

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DNR off-highway vehicle administrator Lt. Jacob Holsclaw addressed the issue directly: "Wisconsin continues to see a rising number of injury and fatal ATV and UTV crashes," he said. "We are asking our wardens and law enforcement partners to increase patrols to deter illegal and unsafe operation, and more importantly, asking the public to police themselves."

The Message Is Simple

Holsclaw added that the goal is 100% safety compliance and the elimination of dangerous operations that can lead to crashes.

All riders need to make sound and safe decisions every time they ride. This includes wearing seatbelts and helmets, which save lives, and being sober while operating any ATV or UTV.

Riders with questions about the new regulations or safety course options can visit the Wisconsin DNR's ATV and UTV page or call DNR Customer Service at 888-936-7463.