ATV complaints pour into sheriff's office

Recently, the Walton County Sheriff's Office has received several calls concerning the use of All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) in the Liberty Community, several miles outside of DeFuniak Springs off U.S. Highway 331. One resident on Harrison Drive says “there's about four or five young people who frequently drive at high speeds, mostly on weekends and holidays”.

Florida Statute allows ATVs to be operated during the daytime on unpaved roadways where the posted speed limit is less than 35 miles per hour by a licensed driver, or by a minor under the supervision of a licensed driver. But unlike Florida Statute, Walton County Ordinance (20-22) prohibits any use of ATVs except on private property.

The ATVs have mostly been seen riding on unpaved roadways, but there are other instances where they've been on the right-of-way along Walton County Highway 1084.  They also have reportedly been seen going into the county dirt pit behind the Liberty Community Center.

Walton County Sheriff's Officials would like to remind residents and visitors alike that any use of ATVs other than private property is not permitted. The offense is considered a second degree misdemeanor which can carry a fine up to 250 dollars.