Use of mini-motos and quad bikes on the moors at Thurso

31st May 2015

Police Scotland have received a number of reports of the use of mini-moto's, motor cycles and quad bikes on the moors at Thurso and other location throughout Caithness.

Police would like to remind users that using vehicles on land without the landowner’s permission is a criminal offence. It is also an offence to use vehicles on beaches in an anti social manner, which is considered to be public places and users must have public liability insurance for their vehicle.

The use of these vehicles can causes annoyance to members of the public due to the noise and the damage which is caused to the land. Of particular concern is the unauthorised use of vehicles on areas which has been identified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and additional offences are committed when these areas are entered, damaged or disturbed.

Police Scotland has also received reports that the users of off road motor vehicles have been driving them on the public roads in order to gain access to various locations. This may also constitute road traffic offences should the vehicle not be road legal, example insured etc.