Timmins police remind riders ORVs are limited to designated roads under city bylaw

Timmins police reminded off-road vehicle riders on May 7 that ORVs are only allowed on designated city roads under the City of Timmins ORV bylaw, and that violations can lead to towing and fines of up to $1,000. Police issued the reminder after what they said was an increase in complaints and observations of ORVs being driven on city streets outside permitted areas and conditions.

The rules affect where and when ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes and other recreational off-highway vehicles can be used on Timmins roads. The bylaw sets limits on routes, hours and speed, and requires riders to meet licensing and permit conditions.

Timmins city council approved the ORV bylaw in 2024. The bylaw allows limited ORV access on designated west-end roads to connect riders with local trails and nearby services such as gas stations and restaurants.

Under the bylaw, ORVs are only permitted on designated routes. ORV use on city roads is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., and the maximum speed limit on city roads is 20 km/h.

Drivers must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s licence. A valid OFATV trail permit is also required.

ORVs may only access roadways when local ATV trails are officially open.

The bylaw does not allow ORVs to travel freely throughout the city; they must be trailered to approved trail access points.

Riders found operating ORVs outside permitted areas may be stopped by police and will not be permitted to continue driving the vehicle. In those cases, the ORV may be towed at the owner’s expense, with tow costs typically ranging between $600 and $700.

Police said failing to comply with the bylaw — including operating outside designated routes, driving aggressively, or exceeding permitted speed limits — may lead to enforcement action and fines of up to $1,000.