ATV Complaints Rise In Stafford, Police Say

STAFFORD, NJ — Complaints about all-terrain vehicles are on the rise in Stafford, and police intend to do something about it.

The police department shared a social media post noting that they had been receiving "a large number" of complaints about ATV usage in the Warren Grove section of town.

"We understand riding is fun and has been a way of life for many in this area for years," police said. "Yet, it must be done legally and without disturbing the peace or creating a public safety issue."

Complaints included, but not limited to, speeding, reckless driving, riding on private land without permission/riding on state property, excessive muffler noise and riding unregistered vehicles on township roads.

Police said that over the next several weeks and months, they will be conducting details to "strictly enforce" ATV-related statutes in Stafford.

While ATV riding is a common activity in the Pine Barrens, authorities have long warned riders about safety. Last February, a Jackson man was killed while off-roading at the Lacey Materials site when his ATV hit a dirt embankment. The state at times has had to close some of their land temporarily due to off-roading.

Police ask ATV owners to familiarize themselves with the township's related ordinance, shared below.

MOTOR-DRIVEN VEHICLE- includes but is not limited to all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), dirt bikes, trail bikes, minibikes, motor scooters, go-carts, swamp buggies, mopeds and snowmobiles and any other motor-driven vehicle operated or otherwise in use on or in places other than public highways.

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or permit and suffer to be operated a motor-driven vehicle, as defined herein, within the Township of Stafford, under the following circumstances:

On private property of another without the express, prior written consent of the owner and the occupant of said property.
On any public grounds or property.
In such manner as to create loud, unnecessary or unusual noise so as to disturb or interfere with the peace and quiet of other persons.
In a careless, reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger the safety or property of any person.

To read the ordinance in full, please visit: https://ecode360.com/11380169