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Power-driven mobility devices on parks lands

Power-driven mobility devices on parks lands

To keep our parks safe and enjoyable for everyone, wheelchairs and some mobility devices are welcome on DNR-administered parks and recreation lands, including.

  1. Wheelchairs, including power-driven wheelchairs, are allowed in areas open to pedestrians and while operated at walking speed.
  2. Other power-driven mobility devices (known as OPDMDs) are allowed in areas open to pedestrians and while operated at walking speed (according to the criteria in the chart below).
OPDMDs are any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel or other engines – whether or not designed primarily for use by individuals with mobility disabilities – used by individuals with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion.
  • Unless a companion is needed, only persons with mobility impairments may use OPDMDs.
  • OPDMDs must be operated at a walking speed; however, Class 1 e-bikes may be used at speed similar to other bicycles.
  • Adjust your speed based on the trail conditions, number of people and the weather.
  • OPDMDs powered by a gas-powered internal combustion engine are prohibited indoors.
  • Visitors should use their judgment when using OPDMDs.
  • The use and operation of mobility devices is at the user’s own risk.
  • If your mobility device doesn't meet our guidelines, you can request a review.
  • Acceptable use of an e-bike as an OPDMD:
  1. Class 1 e-bike (pedal-assisted and can go up to 20 miles per hour) may be used as an OPDMD in areas open to bicycles at speeds similar to other bicycles.
  2. Class 2 e-bike (throttle- and pedal-assisted and can travel up to 20 miles per hour) may be used as an OPDMD in areas open to bicycles at speeds similar to other bicycles with the issuance of a permit.
Type, dimension & weight dimension criteria Terrain Examples Permitted areas Justification
Device does not exceed 26" in width, 26" in length and weighs less than 250 lbs; non gas-powered Designed for use on interior walkways Segway Indoors i. Interior walkways vary in width; size and weight limits allows for safe passage.
ii. Interior walkways can be congested with pedestrian traffic.
iii. Gas-powered engines create a health-risk indoors.
iv. Speed limited to walking speed for the safety of other pedestrians.
v. No risk to environment or natural resources indoors.
Device does not exceed 36" in width, 48" in length and weighs less than 500lbs. Designed for use on soft, uneven, steeply graded or rocky surfaces. - Segway
- Electric scooter 		- Natural tread trails
- Dispersed recreational use
- Forest road

i. PRD trails vary in width; size allows for safe two-way passage.
ii. PRD trails can be congested with pedestrian traffic; size limitations in place for safety.
iii. Trails may have varying slope and surface conditions.
iv. Speed limited to walking speed for the safety of other pedestrians.
v. Size and weight limitations in place to protect natural tread.
Device does not exceed 48" in width, 95" in length and weighs less than 1500 lbs. Designed for use on exterior walkways or routes. - Segway
- Electric scooter
-Electric golf cart		 - Linear trails
- Campground roads
- Exterior pedestrian routes at facilities		 i. PRD trails vary in width; size allows for safe two-way passage.
ii. PRD trails can be congested with pedestrian traffic; size limitations in place for safety.
iii. Trails may have varying slope and surface conditions.
iv. Speed limited to walking speed for the safety of other pedestrians.
v. Size and weight limitations in place to protect infrastructure.