Motorized Vehicles Along the Canals

The Lake Worth Drainage District (LWDD) canal rights-of-way may appear to be inviting areas for recreational use, but these areas are not designated as pedestrian or riding trails. The function of the LWDD’s canal system and bordering land is vital to public safety because it is part of the flood control system that provides drainage and water supply for all residents within our boundary. Any disruption to these areas can cause community-wide issues.

It is the policy of the District to restrict any uses or access of its rights-of-way which may adversely impact our ability to perform mission-critical flood control activities. These prohibited uses include, but are not limited to, unauthorized access of Off-Road Vehicles, like ATVs, golf carts and dirt bikes. In Palm Beach County, Off-Road Vehicles may only be operated on designated trails or private property you own or have permission to be on.

To address unauthorized use of the canal rights-of-way, LWDD may permit the installation of access gates or ‘No Trespassing’ signs at the intersections of roadways and drainage canals. The public and adjacent landowners may report trespassing on the rights-of-way to the Palm Beach County Sherriff’s Office. Trespassers will be warned and directed to vacate LWDD’s property. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office has published a brochure regarding the use of Off-Road Vehicles. The public can download a copy at www.pbso.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Off_Road_Vehicle_Information.pdf.