4 wheelers (All Terrain Vehicles) prohibited on public property/streets

We encourage owners of ATV's and similar off-road vehicles to enjoy their vehicles, but to observe the law and not operate the vehicles on public streets, public property or on private property without permission of the owner

All Terrain Vehicles (ATV's) continue to a hazard on City streets and also are damaging private and public property. We are especially concerned about young children operating these vehicles illegally on public streets and public property.

State law and City Ordinances are specific on this: ATV's and similar off-road vehicles are prohibited on public streets and highways! Operators (and parents in the case of juveniles) are responsible for damage to property and the City of Lakeland will bring civil action if necessary to recover the cost of damages to city streets or public parks.

Surveillance camera are being used in some City parks to curb vandalism or criminal behavior and will be used to recover costs of vandalism and damage by ATV's or similar vehicles as well as prosecution in Shelby County courts.

State law and City Ordinances require permission BEFORE an ATV or similar off-road vehicle can use private property.

The City of Lakeland and the Shelby County Sheriff urge residents to contact the Shelby County Sheriff if residents observe ATV or similar vehicles on public streets or public property or if it appears they are on private property without permission. We are concerned about some recent near accidents between cars and ATV's and damage to private and public property.

Again, we hope responsible users and owners of ATV's will enjoy their vehicles, but the use of such vehicles on city streets, public property or without permission on private property is illegal and could lead to substantial costs for damages.

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