Berlin May Further Restict ATV Use

Ken Byron

BERLIN -- The town council is considering imposing strict limits on the use of all-terrain vehicles because of complaints about noise and disruption.
ATVs are already prohibited from town-owned open space parcels, much of which are used for walking trails and other passive recreation.

The council is considering an ordinance that would go further and limit the use of ATVs on private property. Mayor Adam Salina said several residents have complained about ATVs in their neighborhoods.

"This is about being considerate of neighbors," Salina said. "We want to maintain people's right to use ATVs within reason."

A council subcommittee took up the matter in June. At that meeting one resident complained about the noise and disruption caused by youths frequently riding

ATVs on a private parcel off the Chamberlain Highway.

The council will hold a hearing on the proposed ordinance July 20 and could act on it then.

Police can do nothing if someone is operating an ATV on private property, even if neighbors complain, said Town Manager Denise McNair. Restrictions in the proposed ordinance include prohibiting the use of ATVs on any parcel less than 2 acres that is either in a residential zone or abuts a home. On larger parcels, ATVs could not be ridden within 150 feet of an adjoining property unless the owner of that parcel gives permission.

ATVs also would have to stay at least 100 feet from public roads. Operating an ATV within 500 feet of a home would be prohibited before 9 a.m. and after 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. On the weekends or on holidays operating one would not be allowed before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. Even during hours when the ordinance would permit riding an ATV within 500 feet of a home, the vehicle could be run for one hour at a time and then must be stopped for an hour.

Enforcing the ordinance would be up to the police department, but officers could act only when a resident complains about ATV activity. Violations of the ordinance would be punishable by a $100 fine.

--

Source: http://www.courant.com/community/berlin/hc-berlin-atv-0712-20100710,0,4962217.story

---

Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites