<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" citation="COMAR 08.01.03.06" title_num="08" subtitle_num="01" chapter_num="03" heading="Operating Requirements for ORVs on Department Lands.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>Operating Requirements.</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Snowmobiles may be operated only on ORV trails designated for snowmobile use.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>A snowmobile may be used on trails designated for its use from December 15 through March 15 of each year, except for certain trails which may be closed to facilitate hunting activity during firearms season or other seasonal special events.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>The manager may open or close trails at any time of the year based upon consideration of overall physical, environmental, and recreational use for:</text>
      <paragraph num="(a)">
        <text>Removing trail hazards;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(b)">
        <text>Conducting educational programs, safety programs, or special events; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(c)">
        <text>Using snowmobile trails when snow conditions warrant.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>A snowmobile ORV trail may be closed at any time by the manager when one or more of the following conditions occur on the trail:</text>
      <paragraph num="(a)">
        <text>Insufficient snow;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(b)">
        <text>Dangerous or defective conditions; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(c)">
        <text>Use that may:</text>
        <paragraph num="(i)">
          <text>Threaten or harm wildlife, or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(ii)">
          <text>Conflict with other recreational uses.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>Exceptions to the restrictions set forth in §A of this regulation may be made by the Secretary.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>An individual may not operate an ORV on ORV trails:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>In a reckless, careless, or negligent manner;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>In a manner that disregards the rights or safety of an individual or property;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>While under the influence of alcohol or drugs;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>In a manner which causes damage to property, wildlife, vegetative resources, or individuals;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(5)">
      <text>In a manner to cause or permit the obstruction of traffic by unnecessary parking or stopping; or</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(6)">
      <text>In an area not designated by this chapter.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>Closings. A restricted area of operation may be posted at any time by the Department against public entry of the area for the protection of the environment or visitors and during:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Periods of construction, maintenance, or adverse road conditions;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Periods of forest operations or high fire hazard; or</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Hunting seasons or other special events.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="E.">
    <text>An ORV is subject to the provisions of other applicable Department regulations.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="F.">
    <text>An individual shall obey any reasonable or lawful order of a commissioned officer in connection with the use or operation of an ORV.</text>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>