Staff Report
As outdoor recreation activity increases across the region, the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents and visitors to review Nevada laws and safety regulations regarding Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) and other Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs).
Sheriff Bill Ferguson said safe and responsible riding helps protect both riders and the community while preserving access to public lands.
Registration Requirements
- Under Nevada law, all UTVs and OHVs with engines larger than 70cc must be registered through the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Out-of-state riders must also have either a valid OHV decal or a street-legal registration from their home state to legally operate in Nevada.
- Where UTVs May Be Operated
- According to the Sheriff’s Office, UTVs may only be driven on general or minor county roads and designated city streets when riders are actively accessing public lands.
- Officials emphasized that UTVs are not permitted for general transportation within city limits, including trips to stores, restaurants, or other businesses.
- The Sheriff’s Office also noted that Nevada law does not allow UTVs to be converted into fully street-legal, plated vehicles.
- Driver and Safety Requirements
- Drivers must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license.
- Helmets are required for both drivers and passengers when operating on roads or trails open to street-legal vehicles. While helmets are not legally required during strictly off-road use, the Sheriff’s Office strongly encourages riders to wear them at all times.
- Officials also reminded riders never to leave a running vehicle unattended.
Required Equipment
When operating on paved roads, UTVs must be equipped with:
- Headlights and taillights visible from at least 500 feet
- Functioning brake lights
- A red rear reflector
- A working muffler and spark arrestor
Drivers are also required to obey all Nevada traffic laws, including posted speed limits.
“Our goal is to ensure that everyone enjoys Mineral County’s beautiful public lands safely and responsibly,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “By following these rules, you protect yourself, your passengers, and your community.”
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