Access into Communities
Improving Safety, Accessibility, and Economic Opportunities for Rural Areas
ATVBC is actively advocating for changes to the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Act that would allow fair and equitable access for ORVs to travel on rural community roadways. These changes would enable riders to connect trail networks directly to communities in order to access essential amenities such as fuel, food, and lodging.
We believe in a more inclusive approach to trail-to-community access, recognizing the substantial recreational and economic benefits this brings. In the southern United States, this model has proven successful, attracting tourism and stimulating local economies. ATVBC is committed to exploring how this model can be adapted and implemented in British Columbia.
Advancing ORV Tourism in Rural Communities
Well-managed ORV tourism can utilize existing infrastructure and sustainable trail networks to boost economic development while respecting environmental and cultural values. ATVBC is working with the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) ORV Working Group to recommend updates to the ORV management framework. Our goal is to empower communities to manage permit systems that welcome riders and support local tourism growth.
Looking to learn more about creating ORV access into the community? Check out our resources here: 👉Community Guide to ORV Access – Appendix
See our past efforts in our “Trails that Transform ” advocacy package – Appendix
Are you interested in exploring ORV Access for your community?
Please complete the contact form at the bottom of the page and ATVBC will add your community to our list.
30% Conservation by 2030
ATVBC supports the Province’s 30×30 conservation goal—to protect 30% of BC’s lands and waters by 2030. However, we emphasize the importance of engaging motorized recreation stakeholders in this process. ATVBC is seeking a seat at the table to offer insight into how and where conservation efforts can be implemented while safeguarding valuable backcountry recreation resources.
As a steward of BC’s trail networks, ATVBC can contribute extensive knowledge of important trails, recreation sites, and scenic areas. The Trails Strategy for British Columbia already acknowledges the significance of these networks. Motorized and non-motorized groups both have a role in shaping effective and logical long-term land use plans.
Conservation is not synonymous with closure. It should also include land stewardship, user education, and thoughtful management. ATVBC is advocating with provincial leaders to develop a transparent, inclusive process for achieving the 30×30 goals, one that incorporates meaningful engagement with motorized recreation communities.
We are also calling for a collaborative approach to address self-declared Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs). Improved transparency in these processes can foster mutual understanding and reduce user conflict across all sectors.
Land Management and Access
Transparency, Meaningful Engagement, and Duty to Consult
ATVBC is advocating for the creation of a comprehensive, government-sanctioned Land Management Plan for Crown Land access—one that formally acknowledges the economic and social contributions of motorized recreation. Such a plan would provide stability for recreational users and the broader tourism industry.
Currently, a lack of clear process and consultation—combined with competing land use interests—is creating confusion and conflict across BC. We are calling on the provincial government to:
- Establish a Land Use Planning process guided by transparency and meaningful engagement with all stakeholders
- Include clear Terms of Reference and a collaborative decision-making framework
- Honour its duty to consult the public prior to land management decisions
Moreover, ATVBC urges the Province to improve transparency regarding road deactivation decisions. Better communication and justification for these decisions would reduce conflict and promote public support for responsible land management.