As of 2010, Wisconsin has more than 230,000 registered snowmobiles--about 14% of the total in the United States--and more than 25,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Trails run through public and private land with primary trails usually marked by orange diamond-shaped blazer signs. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) regulates snowmobile usage and enforces snowmobile laws.
Registration for Residents
As of 2010, a public snowmobile registration costs $30 for Wisconsin residents, allowing them to ride on public snowmobile trails and on private land where they have been given permission. Public registration is valid for two years. Private registration is free for snowmobiles operated only on property owned by users or users' families.
Registration for Nonresidents
Out-of-state residents may ride snowmobiles with their own state's registration if the machine has not been in Wisconsin more than 15 consecutive days and if current decals or proof of registration from the home state are prominently displayed on the snowmobile. They must display a Wisconsin Nonresident Snowmobile Trail Pass.
Speed Limits
WDNR regulations prohibit snowmobiles from being operated at unreasonable speeds. However, during daylight hours on off-road trails there are few specified speed limits. At night, from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, the speed limit is 55 mph.
Age Restrictions
A driver 12 years or older needs a valid Snowmobile Safety Certificate to operate a snowmobile by themselves on public lands, trails or frozen waters. Wisconsin honors safety certificates issued by other states to nonresidents. Safety certificates are not required for people born before January 1, 1985.
Reporting Accidents
Snowmobile operators involved in accidents involving fatalities or injuries requiring treatment by a doctor must report the accident to a law enforcement officer without delay. They must file a written report within 10 days.
Roads
With some exceptions, snowmobiles are not permitted on freeways, highways or roads. They may drive directly across roads with four or fewer lanes if they yield to oncoming traffic. They can use roads or highways to cross bridges, railroad rights-of-way and culverts where not prohibited by road signs. They can use roads on which snow is not normally removed.
Noise Limits
WDNR prohibits modification of a snowmobile's exhaust to increase the machine's total noise output above its original manufacturing level. Snowmobiles manufactured after July 1, 1975 may not exceed 88 decibels in total exhaust and engine noise.
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