Off-road vehicles including motorbikes, quad bikes and other similar vehicles are classed as motor vehicles and must meet specific standards to be legally ridden on public highways.
Off-roaders must have the permission of the landowner to ride on private land and, even with permission, dangerous or careless riding can lead to prosecution. For more details, please visit Off-Road Vehicle Nuisance.
Off-roaders may also be in breach of the High Court injunction banning street racing in the Black Country, and therefore in contempt of court, if they are used on the public highway or land open to the public either for racing or to perform stunts.
Meanwhile, parents who are considering purchasing off-road vehicles for young people should be aware that they may be held accountable for the actions of their children if they are found using vehicles anti-socially, including fines and legal action.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “As a council, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our residents.
“The anti-social use of off-road vehicles is not only dangerous but also illegal. It can cause significant distress and danger to our communities and offenders may face fines, prosecution or have their vehicles seized.
“We are working closely with West Midlands Police and other partners to identify and take action against offenders, and are pursuing legal measures against persistent offenders.
“But we need the public’s help. If you witness the anti-social use of off-road vehicles, please report it to us, in confidence.”
People can report the anti-social use of off-road vehicles to the Wolverhampton Anti-Social Behaviour Unit via asbu@wolverhamptonhomes.org.uk, Report anti-social behaviour or by calling 01902 556789, or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via CrimeStoppers.
Alternatively, contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at West Midlands Police or call 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
When reporting, please provide as much information as possible, including the location of the incident, a description of the vehicle(s) involved, the time and date of the incident and any photos or videos, if available.
Chris Seymour, ASB Officer for Wolverhampton Police, said: "We are committed to dealing with the ongoing issues surrounding the use of off-road bikes and the associated anti-social behaviour – we will continue to work closely with our partners to identify and prosecute offenders.”
For more information or to discuss concerns, please contact the council’s Community Safety Team via safer@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
