New ATV/UTV Regulations Take Effect June 1

New ATV and UTV regulations take effect June 1 in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recently released its 2026 ATV and UTV lawbook, outlining several new requirements and rule changes.

Some of the most notable changes include:

• All UTV operators and passengers must wear a seatbelt.
• Riders must wear eye protection unless the vehicle has a windshield.
• Riders may not tow people on public ATV and UTV trails or routes. Disabled machines may still be towed.
• UTV window tint standards now match Wisconsin Department of Transportation requirements.
• UTVs must have two working tail lights.
• Careless operation or property damage may cost up to three times the repair cost.
• Riders involved in a crash must stop, identify themselves and render aid when necessary.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is also reminding riders to make safety a priority. Wisconsin has recorded 14 ATV and UTV fatalities so far this year, including nine on public roadways.

“Safety needs to be every rider’s top priority,” said DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator Lt. Jacob in a statement. “Every rider needs to wear helmets and seatbelts as they have been proven to prevent significant injury and death especially when used together.”

He added that speed, alcohol use and careless operation remain leading causes of ATV and UTV crashes in Wisconsin.

The DNR encourages riders to review the new regulations and follow all posted trail and route rules before heading out this season. They say a new regulations pamphlet detailing these updates and more will be released soon.