FAQ

Q.   What are the current laws in regards to ATV's All Terrain Vehicle Enforcement in West Virginia?

A. We advise the public to stop by our office and obtain a copy of the current laws that were approved (4 pages) to better understand the specifics.  This law went into effect as of July 1, 2004.  WV Code 17F-1-9 (a), (c), (d) ATV Enforcement Jefferson County Ordinance; WV Code 17F-1(a) Violation of Ordinance; 17F-1-6 Exempt from Ordinance; 17F-1-1 Acts prohibited by operator penalties for violations (B), (C), (D), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7); 17F-1-2 (a), (b), (c), (d) Safety awareness courses; 17F-1-8 (a), (b) Criminal Penalties; 17A-3-2 Certificate of Title; 17D2A-7 (b), (c) Suspension or revocation of license, registration; reinstatement.

Q.    What are the current county ordinances regarding dogs running at large within Jefferson County?

A. We advise the public to stop by our office to obtain a copy of the current laws that were approved (3 pages) to better understand the specifics.  This law went into effect as of September 1, 2004.  WV Code Chapter 19, Article 20A, Section 8.  This will note the following topics; Purpose, Interrelationship between ordinance and state code; Dogs running at large - Control of dogs by owners; Impoundment of dogs and fees for impoundment; Definitions and Severability.

Q. What is the WV Seat Belt Law?

A. All vehicles manufactured after Jan 1, 1965 must have seat belts.  Vehicle operator is responsible for all passengers (citation issued to operator) All front seat passengers must wear a seat belt (secondary enforcement) Rear seat passengers under 18 - must wear a seat belt (secondary enforcement)  All children under 3 must be in an approved car seat (primary enforcement)  If all belts are being used and the vehicle contains more passengers than total number of seat belts, not in violation.

Q. Is there a helmet law for bicycle riders?

A. There is no federal law in the U.S. requiring helmets. States and localities began adopting laws in 1987.  Currently the WV state law is that anyone under the age of 15 must wear a helmet (*also covers in-line skaters, roller skaters and skateboarders) You can find links to State bicycle ordinances - not just helmets but also everything covered - at BikeHighway.com.  Also check out www.helmets.org.

Q. Who should I call if someone is dumping trash on side of road or burning non-biodegradable items?

A. You need to call and report this incident with the Department Of Natural Resources at 304-267-0037.

Q. Who do I call to obtain a burning permit or report an unattended brush burning?

A.  You will need to contact the Jefferson County Headquarters Non Emergency department at 304-725-8484.