The impact of Off-road Vehicles

Due to a high residential population and dust and noise factors, off-road vehicles are not permitted within the City’s boundaries. However, they may be ridden on private land with consent from the owner.

Off-road vehicles, although fun, can potentially be dangerous and cause damage to environmentally sensitive areas including beaches, sand dunes, and rivers; and endanger wildlife, native vegetation and people.

The City does not permit any off-road vehicles in all parks, reserves, or beaches unless permitted by signage.

If you see an off-road vehicle being used in non-permitted areas, phone City Rangers on (08) 9956 6600 and they will investigate the situation. If you see an off-road vehicle in the street, phone the Police on (08) 9923 4555.

Fines apply for off-road vehicle misuse.

Click here to view the Off-road Vehicles Information brochure

Coastal erosion from Off-Road Vehicles 

Coastal erosion is a natural process impacted by natural processes such as tides and storm surges. However, the use of off-road vehicles on dunes and beaches can also have a negative effect, reducing the natural occurrence of sand dunes that protect our coastline. For a demonstration of the impacts of driving on sand dunes please view this great image produced in collaboration with Northern Agricultural Catchment Council (NACC) and the Batavia Coastcare Network. Click here to view the cars on beaches graphic

Prohibited Off-road Riding Locations

The land outlined in red below is owned and managed by the City. These areas are strictly prohibited to all licenced and unlicensed vehicles.

Chapman River – these areas are for walking, mountain biking and horse riding only. Areas marked in red indicate the areas that are strictly prohibited to all vehicles.

Greenough River – unless indicated by a sign, all vehicles are prohibited. Areas marked in red indicate the areas that are strictly prohibited to all vehicles.

Greenough River Off-road vehicle boundaries

Other prohibited areas include all beaches and foreshore dune areas (unless permitted by a sign), public reserves, parks and town site areas. Off-road vehicles can be ridden on private land with consent from the owner.

Off-road vehicles include the following:

  • Quad bikes
  • Dune buggies
  • Three wheeled motorbikes
  • Two wheeled motorbikes/trail bikes
  • Any other vehicle

Misuse of these vehicles can lead to infringement notices and impoundments may occur.

Fines

Both licenced and unlicensed vehicles ridden on public property can attract a fine of $250.00 and possible impoundment. Licensed vehicles can only go on public property if there is a sign allowing it. If in doubt, contact City Rangers.