Pocket bikes, go-karts, go-peds and mini-bikes. Every spring and summer the advertisements appear in the local auto parts store flyer or the local newspaper. The kids get excited and parents buy them for the kids to play on. Unfortunately most people don’t know or understand Colorado law when it comes to Colorado toy vehicle laws. That can cost you municipal fines or worse, your kid’s life.
What is a toy vehicle?
On May 20, 2009 Colorado Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. signed into law HB09-1026. While prior state law was clear in regards to toy vehicles, the law cleans up state law and language regarding motor vehicles, vehicles, low-power scooters, and electrical assisted bicycles. Colorado law is now very clear in regards to what constitutes a toy vehicle and where they can be ridden.
There are several key definitions in HB09-1026 to focus on:
In section 10-4-601. Definitions. As used in this part 6, unless the context otherwise requires: (6) “Motor vehicle” means A “MOTOR VEHICLE” and a “LOW-POWER SCOOTER”, as both term are defined in section 42-1-102, C.R.S.; except that “MOTOR VEHICLE” does not include a Toy vehicle, snowmobile, off-highway vehicle or vehicle designed primarily for use on rails.
In section 42-1-102. Definitions. (103.5) (a) “Toy vehicle” means any vehicle that has wheels and is not designed, approved, or intended for use on public roadways or highways or off-road use. (b) “Toy vehicle” includes, but is not limited to, gas-powered or electric-powered vehicles commonly known as mini bikes, “pocket” bikes, kamikaze boards, go-peds, and stand-up scooters. (c) “Toy vehicle” does not include off-highway vehicles or snowmobiles.
A number of Colorado municipal regulations further define ‘toy vehicle‘ and ‘off-highway vehicle‘ by the names: go-peds, go-peds with a seat, gas or electric go-peds, mini-motorcycles, pocket bikes, mini-bike, go-karts, golf carts, Razor E-Punk, Razor E-scream trike, Razor Electric, Kamikaze board, and Rad 2 Go.
The key definition to focus on is “Toy vehicle” means any vehicle that has wheels and is not designed, approved, or intended for use on public roadways or highways. The law is clear – it is not legal to ride a ‘toy vehicle’ or ‘off-highway vehicle’ on any Colorado public roadway or highway. The age of the rider is unimportant. Toy vehicles are illegal on any Colorado public roadway including city streets. City, town, and municipal code further stress that toy vehicles are not approved for use on their roadways. Many municipalities impose fines on the operator regardless of age.
Can I ride it on the sidewalk? Colorado state law answers this one too.
42-4-710. Emerging from or entering alley, driveway, or building. (3) No person shall drive any vehicle other than a bicycle, ELECTRIC ASSISTED BICYCLE, or any other human-powered vehicle upon a sidewalk or sidewalk area, except upon a permanent or duly authorized temporary driveway.
So, the answer is ‘no’. In Colorado you cannot ride ‘toy vehicle’ or ‘off-highway vehicles’ on the sidewalk.
Where can I ride my ‘toy vehicle’ or off-highway’ vehicle?
The law is pretty clear on this one too. These vehicles can only be operated legally on private property. The operator must obtain permission from the private property owner before riding on the property.
Toy vehicles and off-road vehicles were never meant to be ridden on Colorado public roadways or highways. They lack the required features and equipment required on motor vehicles required by Colorado law. Vehicle operators on Colorado roadways must have motor vehicle training and a driver’s license. Consult Colorado law for driver’s license requirements. Children cannot drive ‘toy vehicles’ or ‘off-highway’ vehicles on Colorado public roadways or highways. This includes city streets. Be safe while operating your toy vehicle. Many churches and local organizations sponsor riding areas.
