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Dillingham City Council to Vote on Offroad Vehicle Ordinance

The Dillingham City Council is expected to vote next week on an ordinance that spells out the rules for driving ATVs and motorbikes within city limits. The previous ordinance was 1 page long, the new one is 6 pages. Under the old ordinance, the use of ATVs is illegal on state maintained roads, including those in city limits.  The new ordinance allows for limited use on roads in town.   City Manager Rose Loera  says the new ordinance is intended clarify the rules.

There are three main zones, each with different rules.  The first is the business district of downtown Dillingham.  This remains off limits to any off road traffic, as it was before.

The 2nd zone is state maintained roadways in city limits. That means the Lake Road, Wood River Road, Squaw Creek, and Kanakanak road. Off road vehicles can be in right of way no closer than 3 feet from the edge of the shoulder.   They are allowed on the road surface only when crossing.  They must stay below 20 miles per hour and yield to vehicles and pedestrians.

The 3rd zone is city roads not maintained by the state.  Off road vehicles would be allowed, so as long as riders remain on the extreme right shoulder of the road, under 20 miles per hour.  They must yield the right of way to all vehicles and pedestrians.  Riding from 12 a.m.to 5 a.m. is prohibited.

ATV are not allowed on sidewalks, pathways, or city parks.

The penalty for a first violation of the ordinance will be 50 dollars.  The police may impound any vehicle determined to be a public nuisance.

It requires that off road vehicles be outfitted with headlights and require the use of helmets for riders under the age of 18.  No riders under age 14 with an instructional permit could operate an ATV, unless under supervision of a parent or guardian.  There will be a public hearing at the June 27th meeting and the council can vote on the new ordinance.

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