The eternal dilemma. Is it allowed to ride a quad in the forest?

Quads are vehicles that provide the most fun when navigating relatively difficult terrain. A large number of bumps and obstacles to maneuver around make the forest seemingly an ideal place for an impressive ride. Unfortunately, this is only the case if we value our own entertainment more than the safety and comfort of others, as well as the welfare of animals and wildlife.

Although the police and forest protection institutions make many painstaking efforts to combat such offenses, many quads still appear in these areas. In some cases, this results from misplaced priorities, but often it is due to simple ignorance.

It must be stated clearly: you cannot ride a quad in the forest. According to Article 29 of the Forest Act, this activity is strictly prohibited. It carries a fine of 500 złotych, and in some cases, the matter may go to court, which can impose a fine of up to 5,000 złotych. This ban does not apply to public roads or those marked as accessible to motor vehicles. Exceptions also include mass events for which organizers have obtained the appropriate permits. If a driver is unsure whether they are allowed to ride a quad on a specific road, they should contact the relevant forest district.

Why is riding a quad in the forest prohibited?

There are many reasons for this. The tires of motor vehicles, including quads, are destructive to the soil, forest floor, and forest roads, which must be maintained in good condition so that in the event of a fire, the fire brigade can use them. Dug-up roads are an obstacle for everyone moving through the forest, such as cyclists, runners, hikers, and those involved in the protection and study of these areas. Even greater damage is caused by quads on wetlands, which are often chosen by the owners of these vehicles due to the mud, making the ride very impressive. They are habitats for many plants, small creatures, and microorganisms, often exceptionally rare. Their habitats are often ruined and polluted by irresponsible drivers.

Engines of quads also scare animals away from their natural habitats, which can have serious consequences for them. Uneven terrain, many trees, and limited visibility combined with a large number of tourists create a significant risk of accidents. In summary: riding a quad in the forest is a devastation of nature and a threat to other people and animals. Those committing this offense not only break the law but also destroy beautiful green areas.