Side-by-Sides
Can a Side-by-Side Be Road-Classified in Quebec?
By the Groupe Contant Team · Published August 27, 2026
Quick Answer
Can a side-by-side be road-classified in Quebec?
No, there's no "road classification" process that turns a side-by-side into a vehicle free to drive on public roads, the way you'd classify a motorcycle. Quebec law instead treats a side-by-side as an off-highway vehicle: it can ride the FQCQ trail network and, under the same conditions as an ATV, cross a public road where signage allows it — provided it doesn't exceed a maximum width of 1,626 mm (excluding mirrors). Any municipal by-law that already authorizes ATVs on a given stretch automatically applies to side-by-sides too, unless it explicitly excludes them.
Many side-by-side buyers expect a road-classification process similar to a motorcycle's — a file submitted, an inspection, then a plate that lets you drive on the road. That's not how Quebec law works for this type of vehicle.
This guide explains how a side-by-side is actually classified in Quebec, where it can legally go, and the maximum-width rule that determines its access to trails and road crossings.
How a Side-by-Side Is Classified in Quebec
- An off-highway vehicle, not a road vehicle — Unlike a road-classified motorcycle, a side-by-side has no status that lets it drive freely on the public road network. Quebec's Off-Highway Vehicles Act governs it the same way it governs an ATV.
- Official trails — A side-by-side can ride FQCQ trails that are open to this type of vehicle, subject to the applicable trail-access fee and each club's own rules.
- Maximum width of 1,626 mm — To ride a public road, an ATV-designated trail, or a private road open to public traffic, a side-by-side can't exceed 1,626 mm in width, mirrors excluded. Check this spec sheet figure for the model you're considering before you buy.
- Road crossings — Like an ATV, a side-by-side can cross a public road perpendicularly where signage expressly permits it.
- Municipal by-laws — Any municipality that has obtained an exemption allowing ATVs on a stretch of its local road network sees that authorization automatically extend to side-by-sides too, unless the by-law explicitly excludes them.
What to Check Before You Buy
If your trail region has a local width restriction, check with the managing club before buying — some narrower trails or infrastructure (bridges, culverts) can limit access for a particularly wide model, even though the law itself doesn't impose a stricter limit than 1,626 mm. As with any off-highway vehicle, SAAQ registration and at least $1,000,000 in civil liability insurance remain mandatory, regardless of where you ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, there's no "road classification" process that turns a side-by-side into a vehicle free to drive on public roads, the way you'd classify a motorcycle. Quebec law instead treats a side-by-side as an off-highway vehicle: it can ride the FQCQ trail network and, under the same conditions as an ATV, cross a public road where signage allows it — provided it doesn't exceed a maximum width of 1,626 mm (excluding mirrors). Any municipal by-law that already authorizes ATVs on a given stretch automatically applies to side-by-sides too, unless it explicitly excludes them.
Groupe Contant — Your Quebec Dealer
Our Groupe Contant experts can help you choose a side-by-side suited to the trails and roads in your area. Browse our inventory or book an appointment at any of our locations.
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