SALEM, Oregon—The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is inviting public comment on proposed changes to the sound and safety equipment rules for All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) use on public lands in Oregon.
The proposed changes come in response to House Bill 2232, which was signed into law on March 19, 2025, and became effective immediately. The bill transfers the rulemaking authority for ATV safety equipment and noise emissions from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to OPRD.
To maintain continuity while permanent rules are developed, OPRD has temporarily adopted ODOT and DEQ’s rules for a 180-day period under ORS 183.335(5)(a). The department is now requesting public feedback on its proposed permanent rules.
Public comments will be accepted through 5 p.m. on August 31, 2025, and can be submitted in the following ways:
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Mail: OPRD Department, Attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem, OR 97301
Additionally, a virtual public hearing will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Interested participants can register to attend at: Zoom Webinar Registration
Following the public comment period, the final proposal—updated as needed based on public feedback—will be presented to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in September for potential adoption.
