Law & Order

Enthusiasts Save Off-Roading at Oceano Dunes

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Oceano Dunes
The California Coastal Commission heard the voices of thousands of OHV enthusiasts when it voted to continue permitting OHV use at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA).

The California Coastal Commission heard the voices of thousands of OHV enthusiasts when it voted to continue permitting OHV use at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). During its July 11 meeting in San Luis Obispo, the Commission rejected staff recommendations to further restrict motorized recreational access, with the eventual goal of prohibiting OHV and motorized vehicles at Oceano Dunes SVRA.  

Oceano Dunes encompasses nearly 3,600 acres along the Pacific Ocean, of which OHV use is now limited to 1,500 acres or less. Oceano Dunes became a state OHV park in the ’80s and is the only such park on California’s coast. SEMA submitted written comments and also asked OHV businesses and enthusiasts to contact the Commission to highlight the importance of allowing responsible OHV use at Oceano Dunes without unreasonable restrictions.

As a result of emails, letters and the many enthusiasts who appeared at the July 11 meeting, the Commission voted 8–2 against a prohibition on night riding, additional fencing to restrict OHV use, eliminating unlimited OHV use on holidays and increased enforcement efforts focused on vehicle use and speed limit. The Commission also voted down a proposal to provide year-round protection to a 300-acre endangered species area, which is currently protected on a seasonal basis, and future closures for the purpose of dust control.  

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.