ATV / UTV Road Use Permit – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This FAQ provides information for riders, residents, and community members regarding ATV and UTV road‑use permits in Venango County.
For additional information contact us at info@oilregionatv.com
ORATV’s Mission
ORATV exists to:
• Protect existing ATV/UTV access
• Expand legal riding opportunities
• Support township partnerships
• Ensure long‑term viability of recreational ATV/UTV use in Venango County
Why is an ATV/UTV permit required?
Participating townships in Venango County have enacted local ordinances regulating ATV/UTV use on designated township roads. Under these ordinances:
• ATVs and UTVs may only be operated on officially signed roads.
• A valid township road‑use permit is required to ride on those signed roads.
These ordinances exist to improve rider and public safety, protect township infrastructure, and provide clear, enforceable rules for legal ATV/UTV road use.
If a road is signed for ATV/UTV use within a participating township, a permit is required to ride legally.
Which townships do NOT require a permit?
Most participating townships require an ORATV-issued permit.
The following do not require a permit at this time:
• Sandycreek Township
• Pinegrove Township
• Mineral Township
Riders crossing from one township to another are responsible for complying with each township’s rules. All current ordinances are posted on the ORATV website.
Where does the permit money go?
Permit revenue is distributed as follows:
• $20 per permit is returned directly to participating townships.
Townships may use these funds for road maintenance, public safety, enforcement, community projects, or supporting recreational riding.
• $8 administrative fee ($10 for online sales) goes to the County for processing, payment fees, postage, and required data entry.
• Remaining funds support ORATV business expenses (insurance, signage, office supplies) and future community projects aimed at improving rider access and satisfaction.
No permit revenue is paid to Venango County Commissioners, the Oil Region Alliance, or ORATV board members. All ORATV positions are volunteer.
Is this permit program supported by the state?
Yes. The township‑based ordinance and permit structure used in Venango County is supported by:
• Pennsylvania DCNR
• PennDOT
• The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
ORATV holds letters of recommendation from state agencies and elected officials and is recognized in Harrisburg as a potential pilot program for statewide expansion.
Is ORATV forcing riders to buy a permit?
No. ORATV does not require anyone to purchase a permit.
Buying a permit is voluntary; however:
• A permit is required to ride legally on participating township roads that are signed for ATV/UTV use.
• Riding without a permit carries the same enforcement and liability risks as before ordinances were created.
• No permit is required for riding on private land you own or have permission to use.
ORATV’s role is to help townships establish legal, signed routes—not to mandate participation.
How has ORATV expanded legal riding opportunities?
Before ORATV existed, only three townships allowed legal ATV road use. Today:
• Fourteen townships and four boroughs now allow legal ATV/UTV use
• 400+ road signs installed, with 300 more scheduled
• Over 300 miles of new legal riding routes opened, with more added monthly
This growth is a result of volunteer work, township cooperation, and revenue‑sharing with municipalities.
Before riding, please:
✔ Confirm the road is signed for ATV/UTV use
✔ Obtain any required permit
✔ Follow all township ordinances and posted rules
✔ Operate safely, responsibly, and respectfully
Why do riders choose to purchase a permit?
Riders commonly choose to buy a permit for:
• Legal access and peace of mind
• Reduced enforcement uncertainty
• Access to interconnected township routes
• Supporting local communities and expansion of legal riding opportunities
Where can I find maps, ordinances, and updates?
All current information is available at:
MAPS ORDINANCES RULES & REGULATIONS
Where must the permit sticker be displayed?
Place your permit sticker on the right (passenger) side of the vehicle, visible to passing traffic:
• Passenger-side window or roll bar (UTVs)
• Front right fender (ATVs)
Can I keep my permit if I sell my vehicle?
No.
The permit stays with the vehicle, following DCNR practice.
The new owner must transfer the permit at the Venango County Treasurer’s Office.
Why did I receive a 2025 permit?
Some 2025 stickers were printed in advance.
All 2025 permits are valid through 12/31/2026.
Are there additional rules I must follow?
Yes. Pennsylvania state law and DCNR regulations continue to apply: The below are Pennsylvania state laws and ORATV has no influence over changing any of the listed laws/regulations listed. Additional information on state laws can be found at www.pa.gov or click HERE
• Minimum liability insurance required
• Current registration required
• Tag must be visible on the vehicle
• Exhaust must test below 99 dB at 20 inches
• Drivers must be at least 16 years old on township roads
• Helmets are required by state law and must be DOT approved and properly fastened.
Note: Bicycle and skateboard style helmets without a DOT sticker are not legal. All helmets manufactured for highway use will have a DOT sticker from the manufacturer.
Where can I purchase a permit?
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Venango County Treasurer’s Office, Courthouse Annex, Franklin PA
• Online at the ORATV website www.oilregionatv.com -
Local “onsite” events. Watch the website & Facebook for any upcoming events
Future sales locations may include power‑sports dealers and notary services.
ATV Fines per DCNR
Failure to register your ATV or abide by the rules can be costly. First offenses range from $50 to $200 plus the cost of prosecution. A second offense carries a fine of $100 to $300 plus the cost of prosecution.
Failure to register your vehicle or failure to have liability insurance is an automatic $300 fine plus cost of prosecution.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Ordinances and regulations may change and vary by township.
ORATV is not a law enforcement agency and cannot interpret or override township, county, or state laws. Riders are responsible for verifying current ordinances, confirming permit requirements, and complying with all applicable laws.
Road signage and maps do not guarantee legal access at all times and do not replace official township ordinances.
By riding, users acknowledge the inherent risks of ATV/UTV operation and assume responsibility for their actions.
PA FARM EXEMPTION
Yes, a UTV or ATV can be used as a farm vehicle in PA if it’s a MAV (≤62" wide, ≤2,000 lbs., used exclusively for farming).
No registration/title is needed for farm-only use, but check local municipal rules for public road travel.
If it exceeds MAV limits, it must be registered like a standard ATV/UTV.
Always ensure it meets PA’s minimum safety equipment requirements when operating on public roads
In Pennsylvania, a UTV or ATV can be used as a farm vehicle if it meets the state’s definition of a multipurpose agricultural vehicle (MAV) and is operated exclusively for agricultural purposes.
Pennsylvania defines a multipurpose agricultural vehicle as:
If your UTV or ATV meets these dimensions and usage criteria, it qualifies as a MAV and can be treated as a farm vehicle.
Even if exempt from registration, MAVs operating on public roads must meet minimum safety & registration requirements
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Width ≤ 62 inches
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Dry weight ≤ 2,000 pounds
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Used exclusively for agricultural operations
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Operated only incidentally on highways (e.g., moving between farms or to a public road for transport)
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No title or registration is required if the MAV is used exclusively on the farm or between farms within 2 miles
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If ATV/UTV travels more than 5 miles, some municipalities may require Oil Region ATV permit
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If you do need registration (e.g., for public road use), you can apply for a limited registration valid indefinitely for private property use
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MINIMUM SAFETY EQUIPMENT:
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Rear reflectors, headlamps, functional stop lamps
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Adequate braking system
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Tires in safe condition
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Rear wheel shields/ fenders
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Rearview mirror, horn, functional exhaust/muffler
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If your ATV/UTV is not a MAV, it generally must be titled and registered in PA unless it has been owned since before Feb. 12, 1987
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