SHAWANO, WI- As ATV and UTV use surges in popularity across Wisconsin, safety concerns are prompting local officials to take action. Shawano County is pushing for a new ordinance aimed at closing legal loopholes and curbing a rise in off-road vehicle fatalities.
The move comes as the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports a troubling trend. So far in 2025, 18 people have died in ATV or UTV incidents across the state, closely mirroring last year’s numbers. In 2024, 40 fatalities were recorded, nearly double the total from 2019.
Many of these crashes involve riders not wearing seatbelts or helmets, and alcohol continues to be a significant contributing factor.
Shawano County has seen three ATV/UTV-related fatalities in the past year. While that number may seem low, officials fear it could rise as summer progresses and trail activity increases.
The proposed county ordinance would set several new safety standards:
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Riders must be at least 16 years old
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A valid driver’s license would be required
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Open intoxicants would be banned while operating on roadways
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Liability insurance would be mandatory for all riders
Supporters of the ordinance say the changes are aimed at increasing accountability and reducing dangerous behavior on and off the road.
Coming up this week, we will take a look at each of these proposals in more depth.
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