ATVs and side-by-sides occupy a strange corner of the powersports world. We build increasingly capable machines with comfortable seats, big fuel tanks, fancy suspension, and enough accessories to make a Jeep owner nervous, then tell people they can only drive them in very specific places. Well now, Wisconsin Rapids is about to try something considerably less restrictive by letting people drive them on nearly every city-owned street.
The Wisconsin Rapids Common Council voted 5-3 on September 15 to expand the city’s existing ATV and UTV ordinance. Under the amended rules, ATVs and UTVs will be allowed on city-owned roads, with the notable exception of streets that overlap with numbered state highways. Mayor Matt Zacher initially left open the possibility of a veto, but ultimately decided against it. The city is now installing the necessary signs, with the expanded access expected to take effect October 1.
