West Virginia § 20-17-7 - 20-17-7. Requirements for trail users and prohibited acts; criminal penalties.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 20-17-7 — 20-17-7. Requirements for trail users and prohibited acts; criminal penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-17-7. 20-17-7. Requirements for trail users and prohibited acts; criminal penalties.
(a) An authority may require recreational users to wear protective helmets or use safety equipment that the authority determines to be appropriate for the recreational activity in which the user is engaged.
(b) Each trail user operating a bicycle or mountain bicycle shall obey all traffic laws, traffic-control devices, and signs within the recreational area, including those which restrict trails to certain types of bicycles or mountain bicycles.
(c) Each trail user shall at all times remain within and on a designated and marked trail while within the recreational area.
(d) A person may not ignite or maintain any fire within the recreational area except in a designated camp site.
(e) A person may not operate a motor vehicle within the recreational area unless the person is authorized to operate a motor vehicle in the area to perform maintenance services or emergency response.
(f) A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than $100. Prosecution or conviction for the misdemeanor described in this subsection shall not prevent or disqualify any other civil or criminal remedies for the conduct prohibited by this section.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 20-17-7
What does West Virginia Code § 20-17-7 cover?
Section 20-17-7 ("20-17-7. Requirements for trail users and prohibited acts; criminal penalties.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite West Virginia § 20-17-7?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 20-17-7" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of West Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.
How does West Virginia § 20-17-7 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.