As of November 1, Jefferson County residents with street-legal side-by-sides and utility task vehicles (UTVs) can legally take their machines on dozens of designated county roads — a milestone years in the making for the local off-road community.

What the Ordinance Covers

Jefferson County Commissioners approved Ordinance 0-046-26 on April 20, 2026, authorizing the use of Class IV all-terrain vehicles on certain county roadways. After months of route review and community input, the Board approved the specific road list via Resolution R-016-26 on September 9, 2026.

Phase 1 launched November 1, covering roads in the Madras, Culver, and Crooked River Ranch areas. A second phase is set to open January 1, 2027, extending the network further across the county.

Who Qualifies

The ordinance applies exclusively to Class IV ATVs — commonly known as side-by-sides or UTVs. Standard four-wheelers and recreational ATVs do not qualify under this ordinance. To legally operate on designated roads, vehicles must meet Oregon's definition of a Class IV ATV and be properly registered and equipped for road use, including lights, mirrors, and a slow-moving vehicle emblem where required.

Community Background

The push for a formal ATV ordinance had long been championed by residents of Crooked River Ranch, where off-road vehicles are common and riders faced a patchwork of unofficial routes with no clear legal framework. Multiple community members and the local ATV committee pressed commissioners at public meetings throughout 2025, raising concerns about enforcement, dust abatement, and road maintenance costs.

The county's approach — limiting access to Class IV vehicles and requiring equipment standards — was designed to balance recreational access with safety and infrastructure concerns raised by both supporters and skeptics of expanded road access.

Where to Ride

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office maintains the full list of approved roads on the county's ATV information page at jeffersoncountyor.gov. Riders are encouraged to review the specific route map before heading out, as not all county roads are included.

Key Rules to Remember

  • Class IV ATVs (side-by-sides/UTVs) only — no standard four-wheelers
  • Oregon registration and proper road equipment required
  • Ride only on designated county roads listed in Resolution R-016-26
  • Phase 2 roads open January 1, 2027
  • Contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office with questions

For the county's full ATV information page, visit jeffersoncountyor.gov/sheriff/page/all-terrain-vehicle-information.