Snowmobile Season In Massachusetts: What You Need To Know

Snowmobiles are fun machines for riding on snow. They are a great way to enjoy the winter months in the Northeast, but please keep safety first.

• Wear a helmet – Always. It protects your head if you fall or crash.
• Take a safety class – Kids under 16 need a certificate to ride on trails. It teaches how to ride smart.
• Stay on marked trails – Never go off the path. You could hit trees, rocks, or thin ice.
• Ride during the day – If you ride at night, use bright headlights and taillights.
• No alcohol – Drinking and riding is against the law. It makes crashes more likely.
• Check the weather – Don’t ride in storms or when ice is thin on lakes.
• Tell someone your plan – Say where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
• Dress warm – Wear layers, gloves, boots, and goggles. Frostbite hurts!
• Ride with a buddy – Never go alone. If you get stuck, someone can help.
• Report crashes – If anyone gets hurt or something breaks over $50, call the Environmental Police in 48 hours.

Registering your snowmobile is a must

In Massachusetts, you must register every snowmobile before using it. You do this with the Massachusetts Environmental Police. It costs about $44 the first time, and the sticker lasts for the life of the machine, unlike quads. Out-of-state stickers do not work here.

• For new snowmobiles: Submit a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), vehicle identification number (VIN), proof of sales tax paid (or exemption form ST-6E), and the application form.
• For used: Bill of sale, proof of sales tax, and VIN.
• Fee: Typically $44 one-time fee for initial registration (renewals may have lower fees).
• Process: Apply online, by mail, or in person at one of five registration offices (e.g., Boston, Fall River, Hyannis). An inspection may be required for used vehicles.
• Validity: Registrations are valid for the life of the vehicle or until transferred/sold.

Does Massachusetts require insurance?

You do not have to buy insurance to register or ride. But it is smart to get it. Home or car insurance usually does not cover snowmobiles. Insurance pays if you crash, hurt someone, or your machine gets stolen.

Where can you ride? You can ride on your own land. To use public trails, you need a special SAM trail pass from a snowmobile club. Many trails are on private land, so owners can say no if you break rules.

How old do you have to be? You must be at least 12 to ride alone on trails. Kids under 16 need an adult with them or a safety class certificate. Kids under 12 can only ride on their own land with an adult watching.