LYNN — The Lynn Police Department plans to crack down on the illegal use of off-street vehicles on the city’s public roads.
Over the past several years, there has been an increase in the amount of off-highway vehicles operating on the streets of Lynn, said Police Lt. Michael Kmiec. This includes all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes.
Massachusetts General Laws prohibit the operation of these vehicles on public ways.
“The Lynn Police Department recognizes that these vehicles are being operated in an unsafe manner and pose a threat to public safety,” said Kmiec in a statement.
If a motorized vehicle has an engine capacity exceeding 50 cubic centimeters, it must be registered as a motorcycle. If a motorized vehicle has an engine capacity less than 50 cubic centimeters, it must be registered as a motorized bicycle. Neither type can be used on city streets without the proper registration.
A registration decal must be clearly visible on the rear of the vehicle, and a stamped copy of the registration certificate must be carried by the operator.
The operator must be at least 16 years old with a valid license or learner’s permit and wear a US DOT approved helmet.
Mopeds cannot be operated at a speed greater than 25 miles per hour. They can be operated on all public ways unless otherwise posted, and may keep to the right when passing other vehicles in the travel lane. They can be operated on bike lanes but not on recreational paths.
Mini-motorcycles and pocket bikes are considered to be motorized scooters, said Kmiec. They must all be equipped with operational “stop” and “turn” signals and must meet all Federal Safety Standards.
Motorized scooters cannot be operated on any public way in Lynn, cannot be operated at speeds greater than 20 miles per hour, and will not be registered by the state Registrar.
Additionally, a Lynn City Ordinance prohibits the operation of any motorized scooter, motorized skateboard, motorized bicycle, and all other motorized vehicles on a public way unless it is registered by the state as a motor vehicle, manufactured and designed to transport handicapped persons, or is being used as landscaping equipment.
Lynn Police are authorized to seize the vehicle when operated on a public way or sideway. The items seized will remain in police custody until fines are paid or the judicial process is completed.
Off highway vehicles, including all terrain vehicles and dirt bikes, are not authorized to be operated on a public way. Registration of off-road vehicles is conducted by the Massachusetts Environmental Police, and a certificate of registration must be carried by the operator during use. A registration plate must be displayed on the vehicle and must not be obstructed. Out of state registrations are not valid in Massachusetts.
Motorcycles must be registered, insured, and inspected. The operator must have a class M license or a motorcycle endorsement on a class A, B, C, or D driver’s license, and must wear an approved safety helmet and eye protection.
The department is seeking the public’s help in locating any vehicles being used in an illegal manner. Anyone with information about the operators, where they are congregating, or where the vehicles are being stored, can contact police at 781-595-2000.
Anonymous information can be texted to TIPLYNN and a tip to 847411 or call the tip line at 781-477-4444.
