§ 70-9-101. Short Title

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Tennessee Off-Highway Vehicle Act”.

§ 70-9-102. Legislative Intent

The number of off-highway vehicle users in the state is increasing and is growing as a recognized recreational activity while the number of recreational sites is rapidly declining. In the absence of a program to manage off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, a number of consequences are accruing to the state, including environmental damage and loss of […]

§ 70-9-103. Chapter Definitions

For the purpose of this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: “Agency” means the Tennessee wildlife resources agency; “Commission” means the Tennessee fish and wildlife commission; “Director” means the executive director of the Tennessee wildlife resources agency, the director’s duly authorized representative, and, in the event of the director’s absence or a vacancy in the […]

§ 70-9-104. Authority of Director

The director is authorized to: Establish and implement an off-highway vehicle program; In cooperation with sellers and governmental agencies, develop a voluntary off-highway vehicle education program for existing and potential owners and users; Develop guidelines on the proper land selection criteria, trail design and maintenance, and best management practices for all lands used for off-highway […]

§ 70-9-105. Rules and Regulations

The commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations for the following purposes: To set, through rules and regulations, rider fees as established in this chapter; To establish safety requirements for riders on publicly owned or leased lands. Riders under eighteen (18) years of age shall, at a minimum, wear a helmet; and To promulgate […]

§ 70-9-106. Use of Funds Received by the Agency

The funds received by the Tennessee wildlife resources agency under this chapter shall be used exclusively for the purpose of funding the operation and management of the off-highway motor vehicle program authorized under this chapter. The director may use funds collected under this chapter to acquire by purchase, gift, grant, bequest, devise, or lease, the […]

§ 70-9-107. Penalties — Enforcement

Except as provided in subsection (d), a violation of any provision of this chapter is a Class B misdemeanor. A parent or guardian who knowingly permits a minor to operate an off-highway vehicle in violation of this chapter commits a Class B misdemeanor. A person who commits a second or subsequent offense commits a Class […]