Summary of Legal Code 43 CFR Part 8340 (Off‑Road Vehicles)

These federal rules tell Bureau of Land Management (BLM) staff how to decide where off‑road vehicles (ORVs) can and can't go on public lands, and how to manage ORV use so resources and people stay safe. The rules exist to protect land and cultural resources, reduce conflicts between different users, and promote public safety.

What the rules mean for everyday riders and organizers

• Lands are classified as open, limited, or closed to ORV use. Open means ORVs are allowed broadly (still follow rules); limited means ORVs are permitted only in specific places, times, or under conditions; closed means no ORVs unless specifically authorized.
• ORVs are defined broadly to include motorized vehicles designed to travel on land, water, or other natural terrain, with specific exclusions and special provisions for e‑bikes where a land manager has decided to treat them like bicycles.
• Land managers designate areas and trails through planning processes that involve public input; those designations are intended to minimize damage and user conflicts.

What you must not do

• Don't drive off designated open/limited areas, recklessly, or in a way that damages soil, water, wildlife habitat, or cultural sites. Don't operate under the influence. Don't ignore state licensing, registration, or safety laws that also apply on public lands.
• Land managers can immediately close areas if ORV use is causing serious or irreparable harm; closures stay in effect until mitigation measures are in place.

Vehicle and equipment basics that matter to compliance

• ORVs must meet basic safety standards, such as working brakes, and may be required to have spark arresters; excessive noise or illegal mufflers are prohibited. Night use requires headlights and taillights that meet the BLM's visibility requirements.
• Special permits (for events, group use, or commercial operations) may be required in addition to regular entry or ticketing procedures.

Consequences for breaking the rules

Violating these federal regulations can lead to administrative actions and criminal penalties, including fines and jail time where applicable under the statute and BLM enforcement rules.

Compliance Checklists (Actionable Do's and Don'ts)

For individual riders (do these before you ride)

• Do verify the designation: check whether your intended route or area is open, limited, or closed. Confirm maps and notices from the local BLM office.
• Do follow state laws for registration, licensing, safety gear, and any road rules that apply on public lands.
• Do ensure your machine has working brakes and required equipment (spark arresters, compliant mufflers). Use lights that meet visibility guidance for night use.
• Do yield to pedestrians, horses, and non‑motorized users, and avoid wildlife and cultural resource areas.
• Do carry copies or screenshots of any required permits, event tickets, or membership credentials.
• Don't ride in closed areas or off designated limited‑area routes.
• Don't ride recklessly, engage in destructive driving, or operate under the influence.
• Don't assume e‑bike access—confirm whether the authorized officer has designated e‑bikes as non‑motorized for that area.

For event organizers and clubs

• Confirm the route and area designations with the BLM, and apply for any required exceptional recreation permits well before your event date.
• Do include a safety and rules briefing for participants that covers designated routes, state law requirements, noise limitations, spark arrester requirements, yielding, and cultural‑resource avoidance.
• Do provide a plan for monitoring impacts, reporting violations, and managing spectators and camping to minimize resource damage.
• Don't assume all ORV classes are allowed; check vehicle‑type restrictions for your event and the intended trails or areas.
• Don't skip required permits or fail to coordinate with the BLM where federal lands are involved.

For land managers and stewards (practical actions)

• Do map and sign open, limited, and closed areas clearly; post current maps online and at trailheads, and provide contact information for the local office.
• Do use public planning processes when changing designations; document reasons and mitigation measures to support management decisions.
• Do monitor ORV impacts (soil, vegetation, wildlife, cultural resources) and be prepared to close or restrict use if damage is significant.
• Do require and verify permits for organized events and enforce equipment and noise standards.
• Don't allow ORV use in wilderness areas or where statutes and planning prohibit motorized use.