The T. Mark Schmidt Off-Highway Vehicle Safety and Recreation Program (Chapter 261, Florida Statutes) was passed in 2002 by the Florida Legislature to develop an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) recreational system. The program provides the state of Florida with a set of guidelines to follow for developing and maintaining the state lands for Off-Highway Motorcycle and All-Terrain Vehicle users, and was updated in 2009 by the Florida Legislature to include Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles.

An important aspect of OHV use is for the operator to understand the legal requirements and responsibilities associated with this recreational activity. This webpage contains important information for OHV users that ride on public lands. You will be able to locate information quickly by using the quick links to Florida state laws, titling requirements, places to ride and other government and organizations' websites to assist you in the information you need to ride OHVs safely and responsibly in the state of Florida.

Protect Your Privilege

Riding on public lands is a privilege, not a right. As such, it can be taken away if riders don't do everything they possibly can to protect it.

Responsible riders protect their privilege by:

Staying on designated trails

Keeping out of closed areas and off private property

Following applicable rules, regulations and laws

T. Mark Schmidt Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Grant Program

The T. Mark Schmidt OHV Recreation Grant Program provides financial assistance to public agencies statewide to improve OHV riding opportunities on public lands. Grant funding comes from the titling of OHVs, which includes off-highway motorcycles, recreational off-highway and all-terrain vehicles only. All new OHVs sold in Florida or that are operated on public lands must be titled with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

The grant program is available to any municipal or local government, state or federal agency or entity, Native-American tribal government, or legally organized nonprofit organizations.

Grants will be made available for projects that improve OHV riding opportunities on public lands; maintain existing or new riding areas; provide environmental protection and restoration to affected areas in the system; provide enforcement of applicable regulations related to the system and off-highway vehicle activities; provide safety, training and rider education in the operation of off-highway vehicles; and, if funds are available, acquire lands to be included in the system and manage, maintain and rehabilitate such lands.

List of Approved Grant Projects By Year 18.6 kB ] 18.6 kB ]

How to Apply