Look: These Vehicles Are Off-Limits on Most Colorado State Roads

Road trip season and off-road season have arrived in Colorado. Before you hit the highway, it’s a good idea to know if the vehicle you want to use is allowed on the roads in your area.

Colorado is known for its hardline stance on vehicle restrictions. To avoid confusion, let’s break down the kinds of vehicles prohibited on state roads and why.

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Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs)

Off-highway vehicles include ATVs, dirt bikes, side-by-sides, and other recreational vehicles meant for use on public lands and trails in Colorado. A statewide ban means these vehicles can not be driven on public streets, roads, or highways (Colorado Revised Statutes 33-14.5-108).

Exceptions include crossing a road at a marked spot, using an ATV for farming, taking part in an approved special event, or following local rules that allow OHVs on certain roads. In most instances, the fine for violating the statewide ban is $50.

Read More: Common Car Maintenance Mistakes That Get You a Ticket in Colorado

Local Restrictions: Pikes Peak Highway

Some counties supplement the laws for OHVs on public roads by creating additional laws to support the statewide ban.

For example, Colorado's Pikes Peak Highway in Colorado Springs does not allow pull-behind trailers or campers, OHVs or ATVs, mopeds or scooters under 50cc or 4476 watts, or skateboards or longboards.

Read More: The Story Behind Grand Junction's Lettered and Numbered Roads

Local Restrictions: Grand Junction

Here in Grand Junction, rules on the use of OHVs/ATVS are more relaxed. In Mesa County, these vehicles are allowed on most county roads. In Montrose County, specific county roads have been selected for the safe passage of OHVs. Places like Lake City, Colorado, allow OHVs/ATVs on all city streets.

In Grand Junction, another notable vehicle restriction is improper suspension modification. Putting a crazy kit on your ride that does not meet state specifications will earn you a fine.