Here in Utah, side-by-sides are considered street legal, with a few modifications required before registration. These modifications include installing turn signals and ensuring the lights meet code requirements.
States like Utah have seen an increase in UTV ownership and have allowed these vehicles on the road alongside regular cars. While highways are still off-limits, the laws vary from state to state regarding the street legality of side-by-sides.
For example, Wisconsin does not classify them as street legal, but with out-of-state plates, such as from Montana, they can be driven on public roads. This has led to confusion among residents and has prompted discussions about their legality.
The issue arises from how side-by-sides are classified in other states, particularly when they fall under the motorcycle category. This classification loophole allows them to be driven in states where they are not explicitly street legal.
Efforts are being made in Wisconsin to close this legal loophole through new legislation. Some out-of-state companies have been advertising the ability to register UTVs as street legal in other states and then operate them in Wisconsin, which has raised concerns among local groups and lawmakers.
A new bill is being proposed to address this issue and prevent reciprocity between states. The goal is to ensure that UTVs are registered and operated within the state, rather than exploiting legal loopholes.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it remains to be seen how the issue of side-by-side street legality will be resolved in Wisconsin.