SNOHOMISH — The owners of wheeled all-terrain vehicles (WATVs), also known as side-by-sides, can rejoice as they can continue to enjoy riding on the streets of Snohomish.
Last week the City Council adopted an ordinance allowing the permanent use of WATVs on city streets 35 mph or less.
The surrounding cities of Monroe, Lake Stevens, Sultan and Granite Falls have already adopted similar ordinances. Snohomish County has done the same for use on designated county roads.
In August 2019, a 12-month trial period was put into place allowing the use of WATVs after four citizens requested to use WATVs during public comments at the April 16, 2019 council meeting.
Throughout the duration of the trial period, no complaints were filed to the city, no traffic violations or speeding tickets were distributed to WATV drivers, and there were no accidents reported involving WATVs within the city, according to the ordinance passed last week.
The city has only received positive comments regarding the use of WATVs, according to City Councilwoman Linda Redmon.
“I just wanted to say that I’ve encountered a number of people on the WATVs throughout town and they’re just so happy that we do allow the WATVs. They like to go out riding with their family and just enjoy some fresh air and, you know, they feel like they’re more fuel-efficient,“ Redmon said during the council meeting.
The ordinance is consistent with the plan to increase multi-modal transportation within the community.
Redmon said she thinks it is a positive thing for Snohomish. “It’s just a nice
family experience, I just like that we do allow that,” said Redmon.
Like all roadworthy vehicles, WATVs must be properly licensed and legal before operating on public roadways.
