Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) Rules

Off-Highway Vehicles, (OHVs) are self-propelled vehicles designed primarily for use off public highways and generally used for recreational purposes. Examples include motorcycles, dirt bikes, three-wheelers, ATVs, surplus military vehicles, dune buggies, and similar vehicles.

Colorado State Rules

  • All OHV’s, both in-state and out-of- state, must be registered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
  • Out-of-state OHV registrations and permits are not recognized in Colorado. Out-of-state residents must purchase a Colorado Non-Resident OHV permit.
  • OHV operation on most forest service roads, in compliance with federal and state motor vehicle statutes, is lawful.
  • There are a limited number of trails in the San Juan National Forest open specifically for motorcycles, ATV’s, and UTV’s less than 50 inches width. Each forest issues Motor Vehicle Use Maps designating where OHVs are allowed.
  • OHV operation on Colorado state and county roads is prohibited, regardless of on-highway certifications/ registrations issued by other states. Some exceptions apply.
  • It is unlawful to operate any vehicle, except snowmobiles, off designated streets, roads, highways, or trails.
  • It is unlawful to cause damage to any roads or trails.
  • The following OHV sound limits must be met:
    • 99 dB(A) if manufactured before 1/1/1998
    • 96 dB(A) if manufactured after 1/1/1998
  • For more information call Colorado Parks and Wildlife Registration Division at (303) 791-1920 or visit CO Parks & Wildlife online.
Photo by Aubrey Balcom

OHV Operators and Passengers Requirements

  • OHV Operators along the Alpine Loop in San Miguel (Telluride & Ophir), San Juan (Silverton), Ouray (Ouray), and Hinsdale (Lake City) Counties:
    • must have a valid driver’s license, and it must be in their possession, and
    • must have proof of current OHV insurance
  • In counties where a valid driver’s license is NOT required for OHV operation (contact specific county for confirmation), Colorado law allows for the operation of OHVs, bearing a valid Colorado OHV registration/permit, by the following:
    • operators 10-15 years who are under the direct supervision of a licensed driver, or
    • operators 16 years and older.
  • All riders are required to wear a seatbelt.
  • If the OHV manufacturer originally incorporated child seats or age-appropriate restraints, all children are required to use these devices. Child care seats and restrains must be in accordance with Colorado motor vehicle laws CRS 42-4-236.
  • If you are under 18 years of age, you must wear a DOT-approved helmet unless in a child seat or age-appropriate restraint. The child helmet exception is applicable only for OHVs designed and manufactured to support a child seat.
  • Required to have proper eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, goggles, helmet face shield, etc.). OHV’s with windshields satisfy this requirement.
  • Drivers may not carry more passengers than designated by the manufacturer. All passengers must be seated in designated seating per manufacturer specifications.

How to Register Your In-state or Out-of-State OHV

  • Registrations and permits are available online on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife page or at the following local vendors:
    • Colorado Parks and Wildlife: 415 Turner Dr, Durango
    • Fun Center: 29603 US-160, Durango
    • Handlebars: 346 S. Camino del Rio, Durango
    • Big 5 Sporting Goods: 400 S Camino del Rio, Durango
    • Walmart: Durango, Cortez and Pagosa Springs
    • Ski & Bow Rack: 354 E. Pagosa Street, Pagosa Springs
    • Sportsman’s Supply & Cabins: 2095 Taylor Lane, Pagosa Springs
    • Terry’s Ace Hardware: 525 Navajo Trail Drive, Pagosa Springs
    • Colorado State Parks, including Mancos and Navajo State Parks
    • Columbine Ranger District, Bayfield, CO
    • San Juan National Forest Supervisor’s Office, Durango, CO

Questions about County Roads in Southwest Colorado?

Contact the local County Sheriff’s offices.

  • San Juan County Sheriff (970) 387-5531
  • Hinsdale County Sheriff (970) 944-2291
  • Ouray County Sheriff (970) 325-7272
  • San Miguel County Sheriff (970) 728-4442
  • La Plata County Sheriff (970) 247-1157
  • Archuleta County Sheriff (970) 731-2160
  • Montezuma County Sheriff (970) 565-8452