SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 2723
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 19, 2018
Title: An act relating to modifying the types of off-road vehicles subject to local government regulation.
Brief Description: Modifying the types of off-road vehicles subject to local government regulation.
Sponsors: House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Shea, Eslick and Condotta).
Brief History: Passed House: 2/13/18, 98-0.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/20/18.
Brief Summary of First Substitute Bill |
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SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Kim Johnson (786-7472)
Background: An ORV is a vehicle that is used for recreational purposes on nonhighway roads, trails, and other natural terrain. ORVs include all-terrain vehicles, certain motorcycles, dune buggies, and certain four-wheel drive vehicles. ORVs must purchase and display an ORV registration or temporary use permit in order to operate in this state.
A WATV is a specific category of ORV that is regulated separately under some aspects of a state law first enacted in 2013. Generally, WATVs are four-wheeled motorized nonhighway vehicles and utility vehicles that meet certain height, width, weight, and wheel type requirements. On road use of a WATV requires the purchase and display of an on-road registration and the installation of specified safety equipment.
A county, or a city of less than 3000 persons, may designate a road or highway within its boundaries to be suitable for use by ORVs; however, WATVs are explicitly not considered an ORV for purposes of this local authority.
WATVs may only operate on public roadways with a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less, under certain conditions. Any city and any county of 15,000 persons or more must approve the operation of eligible vehicles on roads under its jurisdiction before such travel is allowed. Operation of a WATV is allowed in a county of less than 15,000 persons on public roadways, unless the county designates its roadways to be unsuitable for use by WATVs. WATVs may not be operated on a roadway within a city or town, unless the city or town has adopted an ordinance approving the roadway for WATV operation.
Summary of Bill: Cities of less than 3000 persons, and counties, may designate any street or highway within its boundaries as suitable for use by eligible WATVs, in the same manner as for other ORVs.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.