Non-Highway Vehicle (NHV) Permits

The Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) defines a "Non-Highway Vehicle," or "NHV", as any motor vehicle designed primarily for off-road use, such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), golf carts, and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs). These vehicles are not intended for operation on public roads or highways. As such, they are not licenseable through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and are not legal to drive on streets unless you have a permit from the city.

Small towns like ours are fortunate to be permitted to drive them within town limits, because it provides residents with convenient and efficient transportation options for short distances. Non-highway vehicles offer flexibility in navigating narrow streets and reaching destinations not easily accessible by larger vehicles. Additionally, they contribute to a sense of community as they facilitate interactions between neighbors and enhance local businesses by attracting visitors who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace of travel.

Allowing these vehicles within town promotes sustainable practices by reducing the need for larger, gas-guzzling vehicles for short trips. Overall, the inclusion of non-highway vehicles in Ashmore's transportation landscape aligns with our community's values of accessibility, sustainability, and fostering a vibrant local culture.

A NHV permit may be purchased for $25 for residents within Village limits or $50 or individuals who live outside the Village line. A permit purchased in Ashmore is also valid within the city limits of Kansas, Oakland, and Westfield. Similarly, a permit purchased from Kansas or Oakland or Westfield will also be honored within the Village limits of Ashmore.

Requirements for Registering for an Ashmore NHV Permit

Obtaining a NHV Permit requires the following:

  • A completed Registration form (below)
  • A $25 fee (for residents inside Village limits) or $50 fee (non-Village residents)
    Fee may be paid online by clicking here and typing "NHV Permit" in the description field.
  • A waiver of liability and agreement to the rules of operating a NHV within Ashmore (this is included with the Registration form)
  • Proof of insurance on the NHV
  • A copy of a valid driver's license
  • A signed inspection of the vehicle, which must have a steering wheel, rear-view mirror, headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, tires, brakes, and slow-moving emblem.

Requirements for Renewing an Ashmore NHV Permit

Permits are valid for 12 months and therefore must be renewed annually. The NHV Permit renewal requires the following:

  • A completed Renewal form (below)
  • A $25 fee (for residents inside Village limits) or $50 fee (non-Village residents)
    Fee may be paid online through the water payment portal by choosing "Misc Fee" and typing "NHV Permit" in the description field.
  • A copy of a valid driver's license if it has changed since the previous registration/renewal

Restrictions & Limitations

It is important to note:

  • A permit authorizes the non highway vehicle to be driven within village corporate limits;
    it does NOT give authority to drive outside city limits.
  • It is illegal to operate a non-highway vehicle on state or county roads or highways, even if someone is driving to/from other towns where the permit is valid.
  • The NHV Permit is valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually. The permit cannot be transferred to another owner; if the NHV is sold, the new owner must complete the registration process in order to obtain a valid sticker in their name.
  • Ashmore has regulations for NHV's, as do Kansas, Oakland, and Westfield.
    When in Ashmore, drivers must know and obey Ashmore's regulations.
    When in another town, drivers must know and obey their respective regulations.
    To make this easier, the Village has a document which compares each town's regulations (below).

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