TOPEKA (KSNT) – City workers are installing new signage in Topeka’s Oakland neighborhood in response to complaints from local residents on ATVs and dirt bikes.
People passing through the Oakland area will notice some new signs up. They’re meant to remind people about the proper usage of ATVs and dirt bikes while in city limits.
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Kimberly Qualls with the City of Topeka told 27 News on April 10 that around 20 of these new signs can now be found around the Oakland area in “strategic locations.” While city workers have installed 20 so far, more may be added in the days ahead with no final count yet for just how many will be put in place.
“These new signs were installed in response to historic concerns raised by residents in the Oakland community,” Qualls said.
Topeka Police Chief Chris Vallejo announced on March 30 a reminder for people who use ATVs and dirt bikes on the city’s streets. Vallejo warned that people could face fines, citations or even criminal charges if found in violation of established city code.
“Operating ATVs and dirt bikes on city streets is not only illegal in many cases, it creates serious safety risks for everyone on the road,” Vallejo said on March 30. “Our priority is protecting the public, and we will continue to enforce these laws to reduce preventable injuries and crashes.”
Laws, requirements and more regarding Topeka ATV/dirt bike use
Vallejo pointed to the following list of applicable offenses and fines along with key laws and requirements that come into play when using an ATV or dirt bike in Topeka.
- Unlawful Operation of an ATV (STO 114.1): Operating an ATV on city streets is a traffic infraction and carries a $70 fine.
- Unlawful Operation of a Low-Speed Vehicle (STO 114.3): May apply in certain cases and carries a $70 fine.
- Motorcycle License Requirement (K.S.A. 8-235(c)): Operating a dirt bike without a valid Class M motorcycle license is a Class B misdemeanor and carries a $150 fine.
- Equipment Requirements (K.S.A. 8-1801 et seq.): Dirt bikes operated on public roadways must meet all required equipment standards, including headlamps, stop lamps, and other required safety equipment. Failure to comply is a traffic infraction with a $70 fine.
- Motor Vehicle Insurance (STO 200): Operating without insurance is:
- First offense: Class B misdemeanor and a $300 fine.
- Second/subsequent offenses: Class A misdemeanor and an $800 fine.
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Vallejo encouraged people to check the City of Topeka Standard Traffic Ordinances to more about what rules come into play when operating ATVs and dirt bikes in the Capital City. You can find this list of ordinances online by clicking here.
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