Accident Reporting
The law requires that the operator of a snowmobile involved in an accident resulting in injuries to, or the death of, any person, or property damage in an estimated amount of $100.00 or more, must immediately notify a law enforcement agency within the county in which the accident occurred.
Prohibited Operation of Snowmobiles
A person shall not operate a snowmobile:
While under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or a combination of the two.
On foot trails within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore or on National Forest trails designed for non-motorized uses such as skiing or hiking
In a forest nursery, planting area, or public lands posted or reasonably identifiable as an area of forest reproduction when growing stock may be damaged or as a natural dedicated area which is in zones 2 or 3.
On the frozen surface of public waters within one-hundred feet of a person, including a skater, not in or upon a snowmobile or within one-hundred feet of a fishing shanty or shelter except at a speed required to maintain forward movement of the snowmobile or on an area which has been cleared for ice skating, unless the area is necessary for gaining access to the public water.
Within one-hundred feet of an occupied dwelling between twelve midnight and six a.m., at a speed greater than the minimum required to maintain forward movement of the snowmobile.
In or upon the land of another without consent of the owner or his agent, when required by the recreational trespass act.
In an area open to public hunting during the firearm deer season from seven a.m. to eleven a.m. and from two p.m. to 5 p.m.
While transporting on the snowmobile a bow unless unstrung or a firearm unless unloaded and securely encased or equipped with a trigger locking device.
On or across a cemetery or burial ground, an airport, a public or private parking lot, a public highway or street, within one-hundred feet of a slide, ski, or skating area, a railroad or a railroad right-of-way
To chase, pursue, worry, or kill any wild bird or animal.
City of Munising Snowmobile
and Off Road Vehicle Ordinance
1. Seasonal operation only from November 1 until April 30th.
2. HOUR REGULATIONS: No snowmobiles or ORVs shall be operated anywhere within the City of Munising between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. of the prevailing local time except for the following; snowmobiles may be operated within the City of Munising between the hours of 11:00 P.M. and 2:00 A.M. of the prevailing local time on the following streets: Brook Street (south of M-28), Grand Street, Varnum Street between Brook and Cedar Streets, Cedar Street, Mill Street, H-58 East to Bay Street and Bay Street.
3. Operation shall be single file at the right hand side, (curb or shoulder) of the roadway at a speed no greater than 10 MPH.
4. All city streets and alley's are open to seasonal operation with exception of M-28, Superior Street and Elm Avenue.
- Restricted roadways may be crossed at right angles with the operator obeying all traffic control signs or devises and all other motor vehicle laws and regulations of the road.
- Operation in the city limits shall be limited from a starting point in the city limits to gain access to snowmobile/ORV designated area and then access back into the city limits to a final destination.
- Preferred routes through the city streets and alley's are marked with reflective green diamonds along the way.
5. All streets shall be crossed at right angles. Sidewalks are prohibited from snowmobile/ORV operation.
6. No person shall operate a snowmobile/ORV while under the influence of liquor to the illegal point of impairment set forth by Michigan State law which carries penalties of fines and costs upon prosecution equal to that of operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
Advisement of Safety
Always be aware of the presence of pedestrians. Remember small children may play on snowbanks and can quickly appear in your traffic lane. Be prepared to react!
The ice on Munising Bay can be unpredictable for safe conditions. Travel on the bay is at your own risk. Please check with restaurant and motel owners for current ice conditions.
For your convenience, ask your motel staff for maps and rules of the city of Munising which will help you to more efficiently find your way around the city and also avoid any unfortunate contact with the city police who enforce the city ordinance.
Welcome to Munising - Have a safe and pleasant visit!
Steven Swanberg Chief of Police
12-5-99
