PORT ANGELES — Clallam County lawmakers will consider allowing state-approved off-road vehicles on some county roads under a new state law.
County Engineer Ross Tyler briefed the three commissioners Monday on potential effects of House Bill 1632, which breezed through the Legislature in June and was signed into law in July.
The law “increases opportunities for safe, legal, and environmentally acceptable motorized recreation” and “stimulates rural economies by opening certain roadways to use by motorized recreationalists,” the bill said.
It requires an $18 metal tag from the state Department of Licensing to display on the back of the vehicle.
Operators also must pay an $18 annual fee and display a $12-per-year “road legal” decal to operate an all-terrain vehicle on public roads with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less.
In a county such as Clallam, with more than 15,000 residents, commissioners must approve an ordinance to allow off-road vehicles on county roads.
The off-road vehicles, or ORVs, must have legal headlights and tail lamps, turn signals, mirrors and other safety equipment, and pass a safety inspection for road use.
“It could be a real positive for our community,” Commissioner Mike Chapman said Monday.
Chapman, the board chairman, said the law could improve access to state and federal forestlands and encourage operators to license their ORVs.
“I think the Legislature did a good job,” he added. “I know we have a pretty solid ORV community in our county.”
Tyler said he sees “no harm” in allowing approved ORVs on county roads.
He added that the law might generate revenue, enhance tourism and provide more convenience for operators.
The law does not apply to private roads or private lands.
“I, for one, would like to see this thought developed into a semi-fleshed out proposal, maybe not so much a draft ordinance, because we have to think about all of the other sides,” said Commissioner Jim McEntire, who added: “I think it’s worth a serious look.”
Commissioner Mike Doherty said he had some concerns about liability to the county.
“On the other hand, it could be a tourism thing,” Doherty said.
Chapman said a proposal would likely come back to the board early next year after being vetted by the Sheriff’s Office.
“I really think we need input from the law enforcement side on this,” Tyler said in the briefing.
A public hearing would precede the adoption of any ordinance.
The legislation was passed by the state House by a 81-11 vote June 28, with 24th District Reps. Steve Tharinger and Kevin Van De Wege voting yes.
The 24th District includes Clallam, Jefferson and about half of Grays Harbor County.
The same bill was approved the Senate 39-5 vote June 29 — with 24th District Sen. Jim Hargrove excused — and signed by Gov. Jay Inslee on July 3.
The law took effect July 28.
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5072, or at rollikainen@peninsula
dailynews.com.
