Opening streets to all-terrain vehicles and utility-terrain vehicles is under review in the city of Oconto Falls.
Police Chief Brad Olsen suggested issuing permits to ATV/UTV riders who want to travel on city streets to the Oconto Falls pond for ice fishing or sport riding in the winter.
Riders would pay a fee — amount to be determined — for a permit, similar to the two-year registration fee of $20 paid by snowmobilers who drive on city streets to reach the local snowmobile trails.
Olsen talked about designating ATV/UTV routes in the city, eliminating the need for riders to trailer their machines through the city to the pond.
“I think it’s more popular for people to have ATVs,” he said.
Aldermen discussed drafting an ordinance that was broader than just winter permits; for instance, to allow ATV and UTV riders to haul brush to the recycling center or open the streets to recreational riding.
“I think it’s worth looking into,” Alderman Jay Kostreva said.
City Attorney Larry Jeske and Olsen said they will work together to draft an ordinance to present to the council.
