Bloomington's recreational vehicle laws

Trail bikes, mini-bikes, powerboards, go-carts, scooters

Due to the increased popularity of recreational motorized vehicles, the City has established rules and regulations regarding the use of these motorized vehicles. Recreational vehicles can be used within the boundaries of Bloomington only on private property with the owner's permission or on designated areas as approved by the City Council.

• What vehicles are covered
• Prohibited areas of use
• Hours
• Minimum equipment requirements
• Designated use in public areas
• Penalties

What vehicles are covered

• Bloomington motorized vehicle laws (205KB, 11-page PDF)
  An overview of various powered vehicles and their legal status in Bloomington.

Recreational motor vehicle

• Any vehicle powered by a motor of 25CC or less which can travel more than 20 mph.
• This includes trail bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, scooters or skateboards known as "powerboards."

Off-road vehicles

• Any vehicle of over 25CC which can travel more than 20 mph.
• Includes all-terrain vehicles, hovercraft, or motor vehicles licensed for highway operation.

(Section 8.65)

Vehicles already regulated by state law

This ordinance does not apply to snowmobiles, licensed mopeds, electric or motorized bicycles or Segways. They are already regulated by state law.

As of August 1, 2005, scooters can now be driven on local streets. Drivers between 12 and 17 years of age must wear helmets, stay to the right and not exceed 15 mph.

(See Minnesota Traffic Law 169.225 for additional restrictions.)

Prohibited areas of use

It is unlawful for any person to use a recreational motor vehicle or off-road vehicle on:

• Private property without written permission of the owner.
• Publicly owned land: school grounds, park property, playgrounds, recreation areas and golf courses.
• Public sidewalk or walkway.
• Any public street, highway or right-of-way unless licensed or a scooter.
• Within 150 yards of any public recreation area or gathering of people.

(Section 8.66)

Other prohibited acts

• Vehicles cannot be loud enough to disturb, annoy or interfere with the peace and quiet of other persons.
• Operator must not be under the influence of liquor or narcotics or controlled substances.
• Cannot speed or drive carelessly so as to endanger any person or property.
• Cannot drive, chase, run over or kill any animal.
• Street crossings: No one under 14 years of age shall cross any street, highway or public right of way while riding one of these regulated vehicles. (Section 8.67)

Hours for use

8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

(Section 8.68)

Minimum equipment requirements

• Standard mufflers must be properly attached. Muffler cutouts, by-pass, or straight pipes or similar devices will NOT be allowed.
• Operable brakes.
• One front headlamp to illuminate at least 100 feet during darkness.
• One red tail lamp which must be plainly visible at 500 feet during darkness.
• Headlamps and tail lamps must be used a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise and at times of reduced visibility.

(Section 8.65)

Designated use in public areas

The City Council may designate areas where recreational vehicles may be used. These areas will be published in the newspaper. An up-to-date map of designated park areas can be obtained from the City Clerk or City Manager's office.

Penalties

Individuals who violate this ordinance shall be guilty of either a fine for a petty misdemeanor of up to $300 or a fine of up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail for a misdemeanor.

For more information, contact:
Bloomington Police Department
1800 W. Old Shakopee Road
PH: 952-563-8834, FAX: 952-563-4936
E-mail: police@ci.bloomington.mn.us

Crime prevention tips

Home | Contact | Site map | Web and accessibility policies | SEARCH