Along with the nice weather comes an increase in complaints pertaining to All Terrain Vehicles and/or Off-Highway Vehicles.  (ATV/OHV)

The New Castle County Division of Police reminds residents that Delaware law prohibits the operation of OHVs/ATVs on public roadways, sidewalks, private property (without the consent from the property owner) or right-of-way locations within the State of Delaware. The only exception to this law is during special events, which require permits from the governmental body having jurisdiction over the area.

The penalties for riding an OHV/ATV in prohibited areas include a citation, towing/ storage fees and if convicted a fine of $100 and impoundment for up to 100 days at the expense of the owner.

If there are subsequent offense(s) within 24 months of a prior conviction or of a similar OHV state or local law, statute or ordinance, an operator could face a fine of $400 and impoundment for a mandatory minimum time period of six (6) months, at the expense of the owner.

Please contact the New Castle County Division of Police if you observe an OHV/ATV operating on any of the above-listed areas.

This can be done by calling the non-emergency number at (302) 573-2800. You will be asked to provide a description of the OHV/ATV, operator and location.  Citizens can also submit a tip via our website at http://www.nccpd.com.,or (IM) on the New Castle County Division of Police Facebook page. Citizens can also submit a tip anonymously by text. Send a text to 847411 with NCCDE in the text field and your tip.

-###-