Ride safe, ride right and enjoy OHVs responsibly this summer

OHV use is not allowed anywhere within Fort McMurray, except for Municipal roads in Abasand

(Fort McMurray, AB – May 9, 2025) – Gearing up for summer? Ride safe and be prepared by throttling up your knowledge of off-highway vehicle (OHV) laws and safety before you hit the trails.

Quads, dirt bikes, side-by-sides and all OHVs are not allowed to be used anywhere in the Fort McMurray Urban Service Area, except for Municipal roads in Abasand. Greenspaces, neighbourhood trails, parks and all roads outside of Abasand are off limits. This means you cannot drive your OHV from your backyard to the trails. Doing so, creates serious safety risks for riders and others.

OHV trails are on Provincial land

There are endless opportunities for motorized recreation in the region, outside of Fort McMurray. OHV trails are located on Provincial land in the region. The best way to access these trails around Fort McMurray is at one of the OHV staging areas. Find more information about OHV use and trails on provincial land on the Government of Alberta's website. 

Ride with caution and within the ability of your group. Share the trail and reduce speed when encountering other trail users. Follow all posted signage and please respect the trails.

The rural communities have different OHV bylaws in place than Fort McMurray. To learn more about OHV use outside of Fort McMurray, visit the RMWB OHV webpage.

Be prepared. Plan ahead.

All safe and enjoyable OHV adventures start by planning ahead.

• Check the weather 
• Plan your route in advance 
• Ride in a group or tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back 
• Check tire pressure and make sure your OHV is working properly
• Pack an emergency kit, including tools to repair your machine if it breaks down.

Spark good times, not fires

All outdoor fires in the backcountry are currently prohibited in the region. The use of fireworks and exploding targets are also prohibited. A Fire Restriction is in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area and a Fire Ban is in effect for the Lac La Biche Forest Area.

Currently, forested areas in the region are quite dry which increases the risk of wildfires. Everyone heading out on OHV trails must take extra caution to prevent starting a wildfire.

• Always check for fire bans, restrictions and advisories as well as OHV restrictions before departing.
• When campfires are permitted, ensure they are fully extinguished. Soak it, stir it and soak it again.
• Keep your machine clean and stop to clear hotspots regularly. Debris build up on the exhaust, wheel wells, engine manifold and other hotspots can fall off and spark a wildfire.
• All OHVs must have a working spark arrestor installed to manufacturer specifications with no alterations.
• Pack water and a shovel or pail to extinguish fires and smoldering debris. 
• Report wildfires to 310-FIRE

Be responsible. Follow the laws

As OHV trails are located on Provincial land, the Government of Alberta sets the laws and requirements for safe and responsible OHV use on trail networks.

• In Alberta, every OHV used for off-road travel must have:
  • valid insurance and registration
  • valid licence plate, affixed in a visible location
  • working head and taillights
• Do not drive impaired 
• Riders under 14 must be with an adult  
• Riders must wear a CSA compliant helmet, if machine is not equipped with a roll cage.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the minimum age of riders and number of passengers for your vehicle 

There are additional laws and requirements to operate an OHV on Municipal roads in Abasand, such as a Class 5 licence and a maximum speed limit of 30 kms an hour. Review the Abasand OHV Pilot Project brochure or visit the Municipal website to learn more. 

Report illegal OHV use: 310-RCMP or Pulse 

It is your responsibility to know the OHV laws and follow them. Illegal OHV use in Fort McMurray is a serious safety concern for riders and others. It also causes considerable damage to property and can be disruptive to neighbours.

Irresponsible or dangerous riding hurts the reputation of the entire OHV community. If you see illegal or unsafe OHV use, make note of the licence plate, address, or nearby location, and report it to 310-RCMP or Pulse at 780-743-7000.  

RCMP and Bylaw Officers do regular patrols and checks, including with drones. If you’re stopped, be respectful. Failure to stop for an officer is a criminal offence.  

There are significant fines and penalties for not following OHV laws, including impoundment of OHVs and the full repair cost for damaged Municipal property.

Find everything you need to know about local OHV safety, laws, trails and the Abasand OHV Pilot Project at rmwb.ca/ohv.