Massachusetts ATV regulations require the registration of an ATV with the recreation management agency, which is usually the Department of Natural Resources. The state of Massachusetts refers to ATV's as RV's, but regardless of the acronym used, the regulations must still be followed.
Age requirements for operations of an ATV in the state of Massachusetts prohibit anyone under the age of 10 from operating an ATV. The ATV regulations also require adult supervision of youth age 10 to 14. The operator must be at least 16 1/2 to operate the ATV while crossing a public road. A safety course is available for anyone operating an ATV, although at this time, the ATV regulations do not make this course mandatory. ATV regulations for mandatory equipment include lighting on ATV's that are over 90 cc, spark arrester, and a muffler. The muffler requirement is slightly different for a three wheel ATV and this information can be checked with the registration department.
Although ATV regulations in Massachusetts only require the use of an approved helmet, it is highly recommended that protective eyewear, gloves and clothing also be used to protect the operator.
ATV regulations in the state of Massachusetts prohibit operating an ATV on a public roadway except for the purpose of crossing the roadway. When crossing, it is expected to cross at such a place where the ATV will be operating on the public roadway for a minimal distance.
ATV regulations continue to change as a means of continued protection of operators. Contact the Department of Natural Resources for the most current Massachusetts ATV regulations.
