According to current law, vehicles weighing over 950 kg are simply not allowed to ride on federated trails. It’s a rule that seems stuck in the past, while the ATV world has clearly moved forward. In this article, I share my own experience, but also a broader reflection on the evolution of our sport, the needs of families, and the economic consequences of this regulation that, for many, stifles a vibrant passion. It’s with great sadness that I write this piece, as I myself am affected by this law.
The Evolution of ATVs: When Laws Don’t Keep Up
Since the early days, the ATV world has changed significantly. When I was young in the Lac-Saint-Jean region, the first federated trails were just beginning. My father was involved in the local club. I still remember our rides, the wood stove in the little cabin that served as a rest stop. Everything was different—the vehicles, the gear, even snowsuits looked nothing like today! Now, we can finally enjoy this sport as a family, even with three kids on board. Machines are adapted, safe, and comfortable.
But one thing stands in our way: the law.
Over the years, regulations have evolved—somewhat.
- In 2015, the maximum width increased from 60 in. (1.5 m) to 64 in. (1.6 m).
- In 2017, it was raised to 66 in. (1.7 m).
Why hasn’t the weight limit evolved too? Quads have gotten heavier because needs have changed. Families want to enjoy this sport together, in safe and well-equipped vehicles. It’s time for the Ministry of Transport and Mobility to make adjustments that allow users with slightly heavier vehicles to ride on federated trails.
“Vehicles have adapted to family needs, but the law remains stuck in the past.”—Quote from a dealer.
ATV in Family: A Lifestyle Blocked by the Law
Nowadays, more and more families are choosing 4-, 5-, or even 6-seater ATVs. Enclosed, heated, and spacious, these vehicles offer a comfortable and safe ride, even with young children. But here’s the catch: many of these machines weigh over 950 kg, which is the limit set for accessing federated trails. And that’s a problem.
This isn’t a new law. In fact, it’s been around for a while. But until recently, vehicle weight wasn’t checked when purchasing access rights. The result? Many users didn’t even know about it. And honestly, when you buy a brand-new ATV from a reputable dealer like Polaris or Can-Am, you expect it to be compliant, right?
That’s where the frustration begins. Vehicles from well-known manufacturers are excluded from the federated trail network simply because they don’t comply with a regulation that hasn’t kept pace with the sport.
On social media, the number of complaints from users keeps growing. Disappointed families, sidelined enthusiasts, and disillusioned buyers… This passion that could be enjoyed as a family is running into regulations frozen in time.
Economic Impact of the Regulation
For those of you who prefer hard numbers, let’s look at the economic impact of this law. Fewer riders on the trails means less revenue for clubs. It also means fewer families stopping by local businesses and services:
- Restaurants
- Rest stops
- Convenience stores
- Gas stations
- Dealerships
- Tourist attractions
- And more.
Personally, I loved refuelling in Lamarche, a tiny village in Lac-Saint-Jean with just 476 residents. Unfortunately, due to the weight limit, I won’t be able to stop there this year. The same goes for my favourite restaurant, Évasion Péribonka, in Ascension-de-Notre-Seigneur. Ultimately, it’s businesses like these that will suffer the consequences of a regulation disconnected from today’s reality.
ATV Weight Limit: Outdated Rules That Need Updating
Let me be clear—I’m not saying we need to double the weight limit. But I do believe a reasonable increase is needed. I think it could go up to 1,200 kg, for example. That sounds like a pretty fair request, don’t you think?
When it comes to trail surfaces, I’m no excavation expert, but I don’t believe it would drastically worsen ruts. Unlike changes to width, this modification wouldn’t require any major infrastructure upgrades on the trails. In my area, most routes go through forested areas, not fragile agricultural land, like some snowmobile trails.
I spoke with the Fédération québécoise des clubs quads (FQCQ), and it appears the main issue is insurance—especially for certain trail sections and bridges. I was also told that the Ministry of Transport and Mobility is currently working on a legal amendment regarding this.
That said, two weeks after filing a complaint with the ministry, I received a different response. It stated that increasing the vehicle weight limit would pose a greater risk to occupants and that no work is currently planned on the matter. Unfortunately, no further information is available at this time.
I strongly encourage you to file a complaint directly with the Ministry of Transport and Mobility. It’s quick and easy—I did mine in just a few minutes over the phone by dialling 511. I also urge you to contact your local representative and bring up the issue. The more of us who speak up, the more likely things will change.
Too Heavy for the Trails: Hundreds of Riders Penalized
Today, hundreds of ATV riders are being forced to abandon the federated trail network or reluctantly switch to zecs and private lands. For some, the family dream has turned into a bureaucratic disappointment.
You can read many thoughtful comments on the subject under this post from April 9, 2025, on the FQCQ Facebook page.
Unfortunately, our family ATV exceeds the weight limit set by law. As a result, while our friends and family enjoy the federated trails this summer, we’ll be stuck with alternate routes.
I wrote this piece to share my thoughts on the issue. Of course, not everyone will agree with my stance—and that’s perfectly fine. Still, I believe the law needs to evolve alongside the terrain and, more importantly, the passionate riders who explore it.
To wrap up, I’ll leave you with one question that’s been lingering in my mind since writing this: How many ATV riders will knowingly break the law this season just to ride the trails?
