Cold weather and deep snow has made a season to remember for snowmobiling enthusiasts. It has also led to the Drumheller Detachment of the RCMP as well as Drumheller Community Enforcement receiving numerous complaints associated to the use of ATV’s and snowmobiles within town limits.
Staff Sergeant Art Hopkins said most of these complaints involve erratic use of these vehicles on our streets, back alley’s, walking trails, or being operated during early morning hours (3 - 4 am.)
The Town of Drumheller “does not” allow for the operation of these vehicles within its municipal limits and currently has a bylaw that prohibits their use.
The Town of Drumheller however, does not have legal jurisdiction over the use of the river. Elected officials, past and present, understand that many residents own this class of vehicle and that the owners like to operate them on the river. The town has subsequently provided areas for the unloading of quads & snowmobiles that allows easy access to the river so that few people are disturbed.
Drumheller detachment peace officers have not been actively enforcing the bylaw, however due to the increase in recklessness and uncaring attitudes of a few, this may have to change for all if not corrected.
If an ATV or snowmobile has been operated on any street, road, or highway, the operator must comply with not only the bylaw, but also the Off Highway vehicle regulations. These vehicles must be licensed, insured, and operated by persons qualified to operate them.
“The officers at this detachment have more important things to be doing than dealing with these offences, but increased enforcement may need to be taken to stop their illegal and uncaring use. Keep in mind, it is not hard to follow the tracks back to the offenders vehicle,” said Hopkins.
The registered owner is responsible for the fines associated to their vehicle. If the vehicle is not registered and insured it is subject to seizure.
“If actions are not changed, I will instruct members to increase enforcement, and ask the town to remove the unloading locations and to close off access areas to the river,” said Hopkins.
