City of Newton Fire Department

06/05/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 06/05/2025 13:19

Know the Rules: ATV & UTV Operation in Newton

The Newton Police Department, in partnership with the Iowa DNR, Iowa DOT, and Iowa State Patrol, is sharing a reminder about the safe and legal operation of ATVs and UTVs in Newton. In 2022, the Newton City Council passed an ordinance allowing properly equipped ATVs and UTVs to operate within city limits-but with specific restrictions.

ATVs and UTVs are not allowed on:

  • First Avenue (Highway 6)
    • Except for direct routes to: trails or roads outside the city, authorized city streets, or addresses on First Avenue not otherwise accessible.
  • The 100-2300 blocks of Highway 14 South
  • The 100-300 blocks of Highway 14 North

Vehicles may not be operated on trails, parks, sidewalks, city land, or public waterways. Golf carts and snowmobiles are also not permitted on city streets.

Key ordinance requirements include:

  • Operators must be at least 18 and hold a valid driver's license.
  • Proof of insurance and DNR registration are required.
  • Vehicles must be equipped with headlights, taillights, mirrors, mufflers, seat belts, and horns.
  • Children must be secured in child restraint systems.
  • No open containers of alcohol or driving under the influence.
  • Animals in UTVs must be enclosed or securely tethered.
  • The number of passengers cannot exceed the factory recommendation.
  • Reckless or dangerous driving is prohibited.

Violating the ordinance results in a $70 fine, a 15% surcharge, and court costs, totaling $135. Repeated violations may result in the suspension of your privilege to drive a UTV in city limits.

For complete details, view the full ordinance here.

City of Newton Fire Department published this content on June 05, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on June 05, 2025 at 19:19 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at support@pubt.io