Regulations under this Act:
R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 803 Designations
R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 804 General
R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 805 Motorized snow vehicle operator`s licences
O. Reg. 186/01 Trail grooming
O. Reg. 185/01 Trail permits
The Act defines a “motorized snow vehicle” as a self-propelled vehicle designed to be driven primarily on snow. While governed by separate legislation than motor vehicles (refer to the Highway Traffic Act for comparison) there are numerous similarities in legislation between the two modes of transportation.
The owner of a motorized snow vehicle shall not drive it or allow it to be driven unless (a) the vehicle has a permit issued by the Ministry of Transportation or, (b) the vehicle is driven strictly on the vehicle owner’s lands. A permit is not required if the motorized snow vehicle is owned by a person who does not reside in Ontario providing the vehicle is registered in some other jurisdiction and displays the number plate furnished by the other jurisdiction.
Driving motorized snow vehicles on highways is prohibited, except to cross the highway, unless the highway or sections of it are specifically designated as permitting use by motorized snow vehicles. A “highway” is defined in the Act to be a common and public highway, street, avenue, parkway, driveway, square, bridge, viaduct or trestle, designed and intended for, or used by, the general public for the passage of vehicles.
Driving on designated trails that are established and maintained by a recreational organization for the use of motorized snow vehicles is permitted. However, a separate trail permit is required. Trails on lands owned by the vehicle owner do not require a separate trail permit.
In order to drive on a designated trail the driver must be at least twelve years old and, if a resident of Ontario, must either hold a driver’s license (under the Highway Traffic Act) or a motorized snow vehicle operator’s license. Residents of other jurisdictions must hold a licence from that jurisdiction to drive a motorized snow vehicle.
The Act provides municipalities with authority to pass by-laws governing the operation of motorized snow vehicles, including prohibiting their use within the municipality. Municipalities have the authority to regulate speed limits based on where the vehicle is being driven – highways, trails, parks – within the municipality.
With the sole exception of motorized snow vehicles being driven on the owner’s own property, no person shall drive a motorized snow vehicle or ride on a motorized snow vehicle or on a cutter, toboggan, sled or similar mode of transportation that is being towed by a motorized snow vehicle unless he or she is wearing an approved helmet.