The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board has proposed administrative rule updates

The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board has proposed administrative rule updates under Board Order to enhance public safety surrounding the operation of all-terrain vehicles and utility terrain vehicles across the state. Following initial scope approval by the Governor in June 2024 and the Board in September 2024, the proposed measure introduces revised operational standards, window tinting guidelines, and rules regarding intoxicants for off-road vehicle operators.
A central focus of the rule is mitigating alcohol-related incidents on trails and roadways. Department data indicates that between 2021 and 2025, 43 percent of fatal ATV and UTV crashes in Wisconsin involved alcohol, contributing to 176 total fatalities and over 1,400 injuries. To address these statistics, the rule explicitly prohibits the use of intoxicants while operating these vehicles and restricts open containers in passenger-accessible areas, bringing Wisconsin standards into closer alignment with neighboring states.
The proposed rule also standardizes operational expectations for operators using public roadways and trails. Key provisions include allowing hand-and-arm turn or stop signals in addition to or in place of signal lamps, giving conservation wardens statewide enforcement authority for signal violations. Additionally, the rule establishes specific exemptions from window tinting requirements for vehicles manufactured before March 1, 2027, as well as medical exemptions supported by written documentation from a physician or practitioner.