Operating on Public and Private Lands

Operating laws for ATVs and snowmobiles differ depending on whether you are operating on public or private lands.

Public Lands

You may operate your ATV or snowmobile on the following types of land.

Approved trails that are open and designated for your type of vehicle
Other public land or on private land if you have the landowner’s written permission and carry the written permission with you while you are operating
State-owned or state-maintained trails, or on state-owned roads designated for ATV or snowmobile use

Follow these guidelines when operating ATVs on public lands.

Trails marked "ATV Trails" exclude conventional vehicles, such as trucks and other off-road vehicles not designated by the manufacturer to be used as an ATV.
ATVs may not operate on snowmobile trails unless marked for ATV use specifically.
ATV trails typically open around Memorial Day weekend but vary across the state. Trails may be closed or experience delayed opening due to weather and mud conditions as well as storm damage.
ATV Maine provides updated trail conditions and updates, which can be viewed on their website.
Check with your local ATV club for updated local information.

Snowmobiles may be operated on designated snowmobile trails.

Maine has an extensive ITS trail system, and the Maine Snowmobile Association provides maps and trail information through their website.
For regional maps, contact local snowmobile clubs.

You may operate an ATV or a snowmobile on private lands only if you have written permission from the landowner.

Thousands of miles of ITS snowmobile trails in Maine are on private property, where permission is granted to riders.
Landowners are not required to post their land to keep out ATVs and snowmobile operators—it is the responsibility of the rider to seek permission first.
Landowners are not required to keep their land safe for use by ATV or snowmobile operators or other outdoor recreational users.