Bill Would Add Restrictions, Hike Fines Related To ATVs - Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

A bill introduced by Philadelphia Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown would place restrictions, penalties and allow for tougher enforcement related to the use of all-terain vehicles in the city.

The bill, which was introduced on behalf of the Nutter Administration, would restrict riders from operating, parking, stopping, placing or standing ATVs on a public sidewalk or public property.

The city says that would include parks and recreation centers.

Those found in violation of the ordinance could face losing their vehicle or a $2,000 fine.

Vehicles confiscated would be destroyed in a way that wouldn't enable them to go back on the streets.

"This bill is in response to what many of my colleagues will tell you is the number one complaint from constituents - the illegal riding of ATVs throughout streets and neighborhoods in Philadelphia," Councilwoman Reynolds Brown said in a statement.

According to the city, other large cities have found similar solutions.

"There is no silver bullet answer that will alleviate the concerns of those who seek to ride ATVs and those who are put in harm's way by the activity. This is step one - the first in a series of proposals that must occur in order for us to get a handle on this complicated and multi-layered issue," Reynolds Brown said.