Sidney is joining other Nebraska communities in allowing ATV’s on city streets. After several weeks of discussion and waiving the third ordinance reading, Sidney City Council passed it Tuesday night. However, it won’t take effect until September 15. The reason for the delay is to give the Sidney Police Department time to stock insurance decals that will be affixed to the ATV.
Council also amended the ordinance to not allow any passenger riding. Despite changes and careful safety considerations, Police Chief Larry Cox still doesn’t like the idea. It’s gonna be an enforcement nightmare,? says Cox, who has strongly opposed the ordinance since it was first introduced.
Alliance and Chadron are two Panhandle communities that allow ATV’s on city streets as residents try and circumvent high gas prices through alternative transportation.
Basic state laws for ATV riding include operating only during daylight hours and not going over 30 miles-per-hour. Sidney’s ordinance requires helmets.
(Thanks to Dave Collins, KSID, Sidney)