ATV/UTV Operation Overview

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You may operate an ATV or UTV on private property in Indiana only with the consent of the property owner.

You may not generally operate an ATV or UTV on public streets in Indiana.  You may, however, ride on the right-of-way adjacent to a public highway, except a limited access highway, so long as there is sufficient room to do so without endangering life or property.

You may also cross a public highway, other than a limited access highway, at a 90-degree angle to get from one riding area to another.  Before doing so, you must first come to a complete stop and yield to all traffic.

Sullivan County does allow ATV/UTV operation on county roads subject to state regulations. The city of Merom does not have any additional regulations. 

Anyone operating an ATV/UTV on a public road must have a valid driver's license. 

Riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet. 

ATV/UTV Equipment Requirements

• If operated between sunset and sunrise, your ATV or UTV must be equipped with at least one headlight and taillight.
• Your ATV or UTV must be equipped with a working brake system capable of slowing the vehicle at a rate of 14 feet per second when
  operating on level ground at an initial speed of 20 miles per hour.
• A helmet must be worn by any person under the age of 18.
• Your ATV or UTV must be equipped with a muffler in good working order.

• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV within 100 feet of a dwelling between midnight and 6 a.m., except on your own property or with the permission of a private property owner.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV in a cemetery.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV at an unreasonable rate of speed or in such a manner as to endanger a person or property.
• While driving on frozen public waters, you may not exceed 5 mph within 100 feet of another person or a fishing shanty.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV within 100 feet of a slide, ski, or skating area.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV on a railroad track or its right of way.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV in a forest nursery, planting area, or public land where growing plants or animals may be damaged.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV in  or on a flowing river, stream, or creek, except for the purpose of crossing by the shortest
  possible route.
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV while carrying a bow with an arrow nocked
• It is unlawful to operate an ATV or UTV while transporting a firearm on or in the vehicle unless the firearm is a legally possessed handgun or the firearm is unloaded and securely encased or equipped with and
  made inoperative by a manufactured keylocked trigger-housing mechanism.