ATV Maine Statement on LD19 & ATV Weight Limits
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALLIANCE FOR TRAIL VEHICLES (ATV) OF MAINE
FEBRUARY 10TH, 2026
ATV Maine Statement on LD19 & ATV Weight Limits
The discussion around LD19 and ATV weight limits has created confusion. ATV Maine wants to clearly share its position and important context.
ATV Maine’s stance has always been to expand trail systems, unite riders, and promote safe, responsible ATV use in partnership with landowners and local clubs. We do not support state-imposed weight restrictions. Decisions about trail use are best made locally by landowners and clubs.
While LD19 is not perfect, it restores flexibility in a sport that is changing rapidly.
What We Know from Experience
Overweight ATVs are not new to Maine trails. Heavier machines were legally registered and ridden before
enforcement, and many grandfathered machines still operate today. During that time:
• Trails remained open
• There was no documented increase in trail closures tied specifically to weight
• ATV Maine has not received any negative reports regarding grandfathered machines
This shows that trail impact is influenced far more by rider behavior, weather, trail design, and maintenance than by machine weight alone.
ATV Task Force Context
The ATV Task Force, held in 2019, brought together a broad range of perspectives, including strong landowner representation — 9 of the 15 members were landowner stakeholders. ATV Maine participated directly.
One of the Task Force’s most important outcomes was identifying gaps in trail funding. That work directly resulted in increased gas tax funding, with dollars going straight into the ATV program to support trails statewide.
At the time, heavier machines were rare. The standards that emerged — 65 inches and 2,000 pounds — were a practical compromise that preserved access and avoided more restrictive alternatives. Since then, machine size and weight have grown faster than anyone could have anticipated.
Local Control Comes First
Even if LD19 passes, landowners and clubs keep full authority to set their own restrictions. LD19 preserves local control — it does not remove it. Currently landowners and clubs are already working together to mutually decide on width, and two wheeled restrictions.
There are concerns that maintaining the 2,000-pound limit may limit participation by riders using modern machines, which could reduce tourism and the economic impact that supports Maine’s rural communities.
Looking Beyond Maine
Maine is not alone. New Hampshire is currently evaluating increased ATV weight limits (HB1095 up to 3000 lbs.) as it updates its regulations. As neighboring states adapt, Maine must also ensure our rules don’t unintentionally push riders — and economic activity — elsewhere.
Bottom Line
This issue should unite, not divide, the ATV community. Regardless of what we ride, we all want:
• Trail access
• Respect for landowners
• A strong, sustainable future for the sport
More flexibility means more options — and more options mean more trails and more access for everyone.
ATV Maine remains committed to educating and working with landowners, clubs, legislators, and riders to grow Maine’s trail system safely and responsibly.
