Provincial snowmobiling laws and Shelburne by–laws

February 4, 2015 · 0 Comments

Now that there is some snow on the ground, Shelburne Police is busy monitoring snowmobilers and enforcing the town by-laws and provincial Motorized Snow Vehicles Act. Many of the infractions have expensive fines, can affect points on driver’s licences, and may affect insurance rates.

The Shelburne Police Service encourages all snowmobile operators to make safety their number one priority. This includes their own safety, pedestrian’s safety, automobile driver’s safety, and other snowmobile driver’s safety!

Here is a list of reminders of some the laws and by-laws that effect snowmobilers:

By-Laws in Shelburne:

• Snowmobiles may not be operated on sidewalks, walkways or parks at anytime

• Snowmobiles may not be operated between 11 p.m. and 7:30 a.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, or between midnight and 9 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays

Provincial Motorized Snow Vehicles Act:

• Every snowmobile must be registered and have insurance whether operated on a roadway or a designated trail. Registration number must be displayed on the snowmobile. Proof of current insurance and registration must be with the operator at all times.

• A valid trail permit must be issued and with the operator at all times when using a designated trail

• The operator must hold a valid driver’s licence or motorized snow vehicle operator’s licence. The licence must also be with the operator at all times.

• A snowmobile cannot be driven at a speed greater than 20 kph on any road or highway where the speed limit is 50 kph or less.

• A snowmobile cannot be driven at a speed greater than 50 kph on any road or highway where the speed limit is greater than 50 kph.

• Every snowmobile operator must signal intentions including turns or stopping with appropriate hand signals.

• Every snowmobile operator must obey all stop signs and traffic signals.

• All roadways must be crossed at a 90 degree angle.