Instructions for responsible snowmobile riders
It is the responsibility of each snowmobile rider to ensure that snowmobiles do not cause harm to nature or other people moving in nature.
Traffic and safety guidelines
- To drive a snowmobile, a person must be at least 15 years of age. When driving on a snowmobile route or crossing roads the driver must have at least a T-class driver's licence.
- Driving a snowmobile in the terrain (off-road) requires always a separate permission from the landowner. Permit is not needed when driving on official snowmobile routes or on ice-covered water areas. Permits for state-owned lands are issued by Metsähallitus.
- Drunk-driving regulations also apply to snowmobile drivers.
- A snowmobile cannot be driven on roads except for the purpose of crossing a road or a bridge.
- Always drive with your headlights on. The use of headlights is mandatory on snowmobile routes.
- The maximum speed of the snowmobile on terrain and en route is 60 km/h. In ice-covered water areas, the speed limit is 80 km/h, except for routes on ice on which the limit is 60 km/h. The corresponding maximum speed, 60 km/h, is also recommended for use on ice-covered tracks, as snowmobile traffic on them is the same as on ice-covered routes. If a sledge intended for carrying persons is attached to a snowmobile, the snowmobile’s maximum allowed speed is 40km/h.
- Crash helmet protects against noise and injuries. Both the driver and the passanger must wear a helmet. It is mandatory to wear a helmet also when traveling in a sled.
- The traffic on snowmobile routes is subject to the stipulations of the Road Traffic Act. The traffic on the routes is right-sided.
- The use of motorized vehicles in off-road areas is monitored by the police, Finnish Border Guard and Finnish Customs, as well as Metsähallitus in the areas under its control.
Off-road terrain or road
Traffic is allowed on the road, but driving off-road is prohibited without a separate off-road permit. It is the driver's responsibility to distinguish between a constructed road and an off-road track. Check out the examples!
Frequently asked questions about off-road traffic
Where can you drive with the track permit? Can you deviate from the track? Do you need a driver's license to drive a snowmobile? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Report issues
Report suspicious snowmobiling to the warden. In emergencies, always contact the emergency number 112.