Questions and Answers from DNR Regulations Handbook
Q - Can ATVs equipped with tracks and/or skis be registered as a snowmobile? A - No. A tracked system modifies an ATV to the point it cannot be ridden on a trail. They may be used on private property with permission and on frozen waterways. Not all trails are open to ATVs.
Q - Can I dual register my snowmobile for Wisconsin and my home state? A - Yes. Wisconsin has no restrictions for a non-resident to register their snowmobile in Wisconsin. Check with our home state for any restrictions they may have.
Q - Are studs legal for use in Wisconsin? A - Yes. There are no restrictions on use, however irresponsible practices while crossing driveways and on roadways may jeopardize their future use.
Q - Is there a special permit that would allow antique or vintage snowmobiles to ride on the public trails for an event? A - Yes. Snowmobiles 35 years and older may be registered as an antique. This registration is good for three years. Fee: $20. Renewal Fee: $5. Owners of snowmobiles registered as antiques are not required to display a trail pass while operating on a public snowmobile corridor. To legally operate the antique snowmobile the registration decals must be prominently displayed on both sided of the cowling.
Q - Are there official dates on which trails open and close? A - Trail openings and closings are determined at the county level. Land owner easements usually dictate the earliest and latest the trails can open and close. Normally, these easements run from December 1st through March 31st. Each county usually has a “trail hotline” number that provides the most recent status of their trails.
Q - I know I can ride the ditch, 10 feet from a county or state highway and completely off the road along town roads. What if the ditch is too steep or narrow to ride, can I then go on the road for a short distance? A - No, you must abide by these distances at all times except when crossing a bridge, culvert or railroad right-of- way and after yielding to all vehicular traffic first.
Q - Can I legally ride the ditch (as described above) when the rest of the trails are closed? Even if there is a marked trail in the ditch? A - Yes, you may ride the ditch at any time and even if there is a marked trail there.
Q - I have seen snowmobile tracks on the trails prior to the official open date, can I assume that the trails are open for legal riding? A - No. Snowmobile club members or government personnel may have permission to ride the trails to conduct an inspection prior to officially opening the trails. Also, many of the trails run across private property which the landowner can ride on whenever they want. Always check with the local trail hotline or Sheriff’s Department.
Q - Are there any restrictions on water skipping? A - Yes. Snowmobiles modified in any way to aid in over the water transportation are considered boats and must abide by all boating regulations. This would include the prohibition from operating at faster than slow-no- wake speed within 100 feet of shore. Water skipping events are exempt from these restrictions; however a local Water Exhibition permit is required. Local ordinances may exist so check with local authorities.