Jefferson County is moving forward with an ordinance that could fundamentally change how residents and visitors experience the county’s vast network of rural roads. More than 100 miles of county roads near Crooked River Ranch, Madras, and Culver could soon be open to Class 4 all-terrain vehicles — commonly known as side-by-sides — under a proposed ATV designation ordinance now taking shape at the county level.

A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, at 10 a.m. at the Jefferson County Administration Building in Madras. Residents are encouraged to attend and weigh in before the county moves toward a final decision.

What Is a Class 4 ATV?

Class 4 ATVs feature four wheels and a steering wheel (as opposed to handlebars), and are commonly called side-by-sides or UTVs. Unlike traditional quads and dirt bikes, side-by-sides can carry passengers and are widely used for recreational exploration, agricultural work, and property access across rural Oregon. Currently, these vehicles are restricted from most public county roads in Jefferson County, pushing riders toward private land or a narrow set of designated trails.

The proposed ordinance would designate specific county roads as ATV-accessible, opening up terrain in several distinct areas:

  • The south side of Madras
  • The Southeast Grassland area
  • The Three Rivers area near Lake Billy Chinook

The Three Rivers corridor — known for dramatic canyon scenery, world-class fishing access, and proximity to popular recreation destinations including Lake Billy Chinook and the Deschutes River — would be a major draw for off-road enthusiasts from across Central Oregon and beyond.

Economic and Recreational Potential

Jefferson County is following a trail blazed by several other Oregon counties that have adopted similar ATV road designation ordinances, often citing the economic benefit of attracting recreational tourism to rural communities. For Jefferson County, where outdoor recreation and agriculture both drive significant portions of the local economy, expanded off-road access fits naturally into the county’s identity as a destination for outdoor adventure.

Proponents of the ordinance argue that side-by-side tourism generates real dollars — fuel stops, lodging, meals, and gear — for small communities like Culver, Crooked River Ranch, and Madras itself.

Your Voice Matters — Attend Tuesday’s Hearing

Residents with concerns about safety, road wear, dust, or noise are welcome to voice their opinions at Tuesday’s public hearing. County officials are expected to weigh public input carefully before adopting final ordinance language.

The hearing will be held September 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Jefferson County Administration Building, 66 SE D Street, Madras.