Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development is encouraging all snowmobilers to sled safely this season and advising that conservation officers will be conducting snowmobile patrols to help ensure public safety.
Recreational snowmobilers are reminded that a Snopass permit is required to ride on trails managed by Snoman. A Snopass costs $150 for an annual permit or $75 for a seven-day permit and can be purchased through Manitoba Public Insurance. More information is available at snoman.mb.ca.
Manitobans are reminded the following actions can result in provincial fines:
- operating a snowmobile without a Snoman permit ($486 fine);
- operating an unregistered off-road vehicle ($174 fine);failure to wear a helmet ($174 fine); and
- public consumption of alcohol ($672 fine).
Impaired operation of a snowmobile carries with it the same consequences as driving a vehicle while impaired. Penalties can include significant fines, impoundment of the snowmobile and a conviction resulting in a criminal record.
Conservation officers and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police play a critical role in monitoring trails for impaired driving offences.
