ATVs and UTVs allowed on specific Postville roadways; watch for signs

The City of Postville has recently revised its code of ordinances relating to the operation of all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off road utility vehicles (UTVs) as they are now allowing these types of vehicles on specific streets within the City limits.

UTVs and ATVs must be registered with Allamakee County pursuant to its regulations concerning registration.  When riding within the City, drivers must stay on the assigned routes as specified on street signs.

Postville City Clerk Darcy Radloff wrote a grant and was awarded funding from the Allamakee County Community Foundation in the amount of $1000 to support Allamakee County ATV/UTV Trail Signage. The signs have been erected in Harpers Ferry, Waterville, and designated streets in Postville.

ATVs may be operated on any public street within the City of Postville  according to the route as indicated by the signs.

Drivers of these vehicles may make a direct crossing onto a provided street when the crossing is made at an angle of 90 degrees and at a place where there is no obstruction. The vehicle must also make a complete stop before crossing and yield the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic.

ATVs and UTVs are not to be operated on a railroad right-of-way or in any park, playground or any other City owned property without permission of the City.

Riding is prohibited near churches, schools or the funeral home if services are being held or in the vicinity of the school if school is in session. These vehicles are not to be operated in the City between the hours of midnight and 7 a.m. except in an emergency situation.

When driving an ATV or UTV,  operators must abide by all traffic laws  relating to the operation of any motor vehicles. It is imperative that anyone driving such a vehicle have a valid driver’s license.

Operators must also have proof of liability insurance.

ATV/UTV Club

Most recently an ATV/UTV Club has been organized in Allamakee County.

Along with the rules that are specified in the City ordinance the Club asks riders to also follow the following rules of the road:

Riding is allowed on all gravel roads except Class C gravel roads located within state land.

The speed limit is 35 mph on gravel and 10 mph within city limits. Riders are allowed in specific areas of Postville, Harpers Ferry, and Waterville. Lansing prohibits riders anywhere within the city limits.

Vehicles must be registered with the county. Riding double is prohibited unless the machine is equipped as a two-up.

Club meetings are held the first Thursday of each month. For more information or to join call (563) 568-9908.