Michigan DNR Reminder: Hunters Using ORVs with Orange Flags are Hunters with Disabilties Operating Under the Law
OutdoorHub 09.21.11
The Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that persons using off-road vehicles that display an orange flag are hunters with disabilities and are allowed to have their ORVs operating in an area open to hunting.
According to state law, persons who meet certain criteria are permitted to operate licensed ATVs/ORVs on forest roads that are open to public vehicular travel on state lands, including those not posted open to ORVs. Privileges do not extend to cross-country travel, nor to areas, trails and roads specifically posted closed to vehicle or ORV use. Privileges also do not extend to the operation of an ORV within state game, wildlife, or research areas, federal forest lands, state parks, state recreation areas or Michigan trailways.
The law is intended to prevent misunderstandings between sportsmen and sportswomen that might arise when confronted with an ORV operating in an area open to hunting. It is important for hunters to understand that under certain circumstances, ORV use is permitted, said Lt. Andrew Turner of the DNR’s Law Enforcement Division.
Turner said the law simply allows hunters with disabilities to display an orange flag if they so choose. The law does not require a flag, and there are no size or height requirements in the law for the flag. The DNR chose orange for the flag color because orange flags are readily available, highly visible, inexpensive and commonly used for safety purposes.
For more information on hunting opportunities in Michigan, visit the DNR’s Hunting website at www.michigan.gov/hunting.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
