Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

There has been an increase in the riding of ATVs, dirt bikes and golf carts in St. James Parish.

St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office reminds citizens that the operators of ATVs, dirt bikes and golf carts must be at least 16 years of age and have a license. ATVs, dirt bikes and golf carts are not permitted on private property, which also includes sugarcane field roads. ATVs and dirt bikes are not permitted on parish or state highways, but can be driven along the shoulder area (grass) of parish roads and state highways in a safe manner that does not interfere with vehicles traveling on these roadways. The operator must be a licensed driver.

In accordance with State law and Parish Ordinance, golf carts are permitted on parish roadways, as long as the operator is a licensed driver and the owner of the golf cart has obtained a permit from the Sheriff’s Office.

There have been instances in the past where operators of ATVs and dirt bikes have stated they have permission to be on private property, such as sugarcane field roads. If this is the case, it is recommended the operator have (in their possession) a notarized letter from the property owner giving permission. This will assist deputies in knowing who has permission to be on the property and who does not.

Along with the numerous complaints of ATVs and dirt bikes trespassing on private property, there has been an increase in calls from property owners that they are being threatened by teenage operators and passengers when asked to get off of private property. It is a criminal offense to threaten harm to another person.

This was written due to the amount of complaints we are receiving. Citizens are asked to be respectful of each other and also respectful of another person’s property.