FAQ

FAQ

FCMQ

The Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec

The Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec (FCMQ) is a non-profit organisation, governed by Board composed of 13 volunteer administrators.

The FCMQ is dedicated to the development and promotion of snowmobiling throughout Quebec and is comprised of 197 member snowmobile clubs.

The FCMQ offers various services to its members, including administering financial assistance programs, negotiating preferential trail signage pricing, producing a magazine for its members, etc.

For additional details, click here.

Snowmobile Clubs

A snowmobile club is a non-profit organisation, with a Board composed of volunteers. The club ensures the smooth functioning of snowmobiling on its territory. Volunteers develop and maintain trails and infrastructures prior to installing signage, along with organising activities for its members. Clubs also include trail wardens amongst their volunteers, with their mandate being member safety.

The primary funding source for snowmobile clubs is trail permit sales revenue (user/pay principle). Monies from these sales are re-injected into trail maintenance, signage purchasing, bridge construction, to name but a few. 

To locate the coordinates of a club, consulte our snowmobile clubs directory.

General Information

Are you interested in snowmobiling clients?

You are not on the interactive trail map or the iMotoneige application, but you would like to be there?

Register with your regional tourism association, or contact FCMQ Customer Service for the contact details of the person responsible for points of service at the tourism association concerned. Your business will then be displayed on the interactive trail map and on the iMotoneige* application.

Click here to see the types of eligible businesses by viewing the service legend on the interactive map.

*Some conditions apply.

Please note that if you wish to sign up for the Hotel sécuritaire package, you must do so with Valérie Ménard (vmenard@fcmq.qc.ca).

Volunteering

Whether it’s installing trail signage, negotiating land-use permissions, grooming trails, volunteers are still at the heart of the Quebec snowmobile industry.

What better way to meet like-minded passionate snowmobilers than to enlist your help and contribute to the maintenance and development of a trail system that brings so much joy to so many.

Do you want to become a volunteer?
Contact your local club to offer your services.

Trail Permit

General Information

Whether you call it a "trail permit sticker" or a "membership card", the trail permit is mandatory to ride on snowmobile trails. The trail permit is composed of a sticker*, which must be installed on the left side of the cab, as well as the "member copy" receipt, both of which are required during trail-side checks.  

Please note that it is prohibited by law to ride on an FCMQ trail without a trail permit.

*Valid for annual and antique annual trail permits. Conditions apply for the other categories of trail permits.

Buying trail permit is a legal obligation for trail users, but above all it's a socially responsible gesture to share the associated operating costs. Clubs are responsible for maintaining snowmobile trails, and that's expensive!

For an annual trail permit sold in presale, 58% of your investment goes back to your club! 

 

The purchase of the trail permit provides you with:

  • The right to ride on all FCMQ member club trails throughout the province; 33,000 km of pure snow heaven;
  • Free subscription to Motoneige Québec magazine (4 issues, distributed in Quebec only);
  • $1,000,000 (mandatory) public liability insurance coverage.

 

The cost of trail permits includes civil liability insurance coverage as required by article 19 of An Act Respecting Off-Highway Vehicles, as well as all applicable taxes.

For additional details, click here.

Most of the dollars invested in the purchase of a trail permit go directly to the club for trail maintenance. We strongly recommend that you choose a club where you ride most often.

For additional details, click here.

You must stick it on the left side of the cab*, preferably on a smooth surface or on the windshield

What precautionary measures should I take before I stick my trail permit on my snowmobile?

  • Avoid placing it on top of your old trail permit sticker, and avoid cleaning the chosen area with solvent-based cleaners.
  • Trail permit sticker should not be installed on a very cold surface. Warm the chosen surface prior to placing the sticker. The warmth from your hand for a few minutes should be sufficient to warm the surface area.
  • Avoid using a pressure washer on, or close to, the trail permit sticker.

* Please note that no sticker will be issued for a daily trail permit purchase. You will have to print your proof of purchase (received by email) and follow the listed instructions.

It is possible to purchase you trail permit without insurance, however, civil liability insurance remains mandatory for all snowmobile owners. The FCMQ has negotiated a preferential rate with Intact Insurance for you, for only $37.49 taxes included.

The law stipulates that as a snowmobile owner, you must have a 1 000 000$ minimum, civil liability insurance guaranteeing compensation for material and bodily damage caused by your vehicle. This insurance is mandatory for all snowmobile drivers that ride in or out-of-trails.  

NOTICE: Insurance verification, administration and handling fees of $23.00 taxes included will be applied.

You must foresee a 21-day delay, for verification and validation, before receiving your trail permit.

You must go through the transactional platform  to complete the process of purchasing your trail permit without insurance.

The purchase order form must be filled out completely and returned with all required documents, along with payment information. No personal cheques or money orders accepted.

For additional details, click here.

Other available options

Do you already have liability insurance for your snowmobile, or do you think you can get coverage for a better price? You have the option to purchase a trail permit without insurance. Find out more under Trail Permit – Information.

If you have already purchased your trail permit and wish to cancel the liability insurance included with it, for a refund, fill out the form provided.

ATTENTION! You have a 10-day complimentary examination period. After the first 10 days, only the portion of the insurance premium that is an overpayment can be refunded.

Be protected… and save money with liability coverage from Intact Insurance, included in the price of your trail permit!

Buying a Trail Permit

All trail permit categories are sold online by the FCMQ for snowmobile clubs.

Promotional video (french only)
Purchase your trail permit online

For more details, click here.

Please note that trail wardens may also sell trail permits in the course of a trail-side verification. However, the snowmobiler will have to pay $800 and could also be eligible for a fine due to having previously ridden on trails without possessing a valid trail permit.

Please note that it is preferable to use the landscape format and not portrait on your tablet or cell phone in order to properly navigate the online purchasing platform of the trail permit.

To purchase online, you will need:

  • Equipment (computer, tablet or cellular phone) with access to the Internet*;
    • *Please note it is preferred to be in panoramic mode and not in portrait mode on your tablet or cell phone, in order to navigate through the platform for your on-line trail permit purchase.
  • A valid e-mail address;
  • How to create an email: Gmail or Outlook
  • Open up an existing profile or create a new one;
    • Please ensure that the profile is created in the name of the owner of the snowmobile, the trail permit is automatically issued under the name and address registered in your profile.
    • Make sure that your information is valid, up to date and complete (postal address, telephone, e-mail, etc.).
  • Information pertaining to your snowmobile, including the serial number as it appears on your proof of registration.

You can then list your snowmobiles which will require a trail permit in order to be ridden on the magnificent 33,000 km of federated trails.

You will be directed to the club selection page. You can choose your club by selecting it on the map according to its location, entering its number or scrolling through the drop down menu.

Once your club has been selected, you will be able to choose, according to the information entered for your snowmobile, the type of trail permit you want.

  • Annual trail permit
  • Antique (annual) trail permit* (MY2002 and under)
  • "Daily" trail permits (7-day, 3-day and 1-day)

*The antique trail permit option will only appear if the information pertaining to your snowmobile qualifies it according to the years of eligibility.

Once your selection is complete, all you have to do is go to the checkout and pay the amount on the invoice. You will receive, by email, your 21-day temporary trail permit, your Intact Insurance civil liability insurance documentation, and your proof of insurance form. You will receive your official sticker** by mail within a reasonable time.

**Valid for annual and antique annual trail permits. Different conditions apply for the other categories of permits.

To view the demo on YouTube

Take advantage of the "early bird" sale and save on the purchase of your trail permit. The early bird period ends on December 9th.

Beginning December 10th, and without exception, the trail permit rates are the regular rates until the end of the season.

Please note, by law, it is forbidden to circulate in the FCMQ trails until such time, you have received and installed your trail permit on your snowmobile.
However, you may use your temporary trail permit, valid for 21 days, (also accepted on your smart phone). This information will be included in the email, confirming your trail permit purchase. You must also have a civil liability insurance.
  1. Canada Post delays vary from 2 to 5 days, added to the time needed to process your order. These delays may increase, particularly during the intense pre sale period.
  2. Validate your postal address in your profile.
  3. Validate that the FCMQ does not have to wait for complementary information on your behalf if you have chosen to purchase your trail permit without insurance. Please note, by law, it is forbidden to circulate in the FCMQ trails until such time, you have received and installed your trail permit on your snowmobile. 
    You will not receive a temporary trail permit if you have purchased your trail permit without insurance.
  4. Following this delay and having validated your information in your profile, call the FCMQ customer service.

Please note, by law, it is forbidden to circulate in the FCMQ trails until such time, you have received and installed your trail permit on your snowmobile.
However, you may use your temporary trail permit, valid for 21 days, (also accepted on your smart phone). This information will be included in the email, confirming your trail permit purchase. You must also have a civil liability insurance.

  1. Canada Post delays vary from 2 to 5 days, added to the time needed to process your order. These delays may increase, particularly during the intense pre sale period.
  2. Validate your postal address in your profile.
  3. Validate that the FCMQ does not have to wait for complementary information on your behalf if you have chosen to purchase your trail permit without insurance. Please note, by law, it is forbidden to circulate in the FCMQ trails until such time, you have received and installed your trail permit on your snowmobile. 
    You will not receive a temporary trail permit if you have purchased your trail permit without insurance.
  4. Following this delay and having validated your information in your profile, call the FCMQ customer service.

The trail permit is personal. It is non-transferable and non-refundable. It is an offence to operate a snowmobile on an approved trail without having paid the prescribed access fee as determined by the Board of Directors.

For more details, click here.

You can purchase a replacement trail permit from your online account, only if you have already purchased an annual trail permit.

 

Changing your snowmobile?

IMPORTANT: you must remove the sticker from your old snowmobile and keep it for any request for replacement. This proof is mandatory.
Moreover, by leaving the sticker on your old snowmobile, you expose the new owner to an offence since all trail permits must be in the name of the owner of the snowmobile. It's a question of insurance, too.

Procedure :

  • Login to your profile;
  • Select the replacement option;
  • Complete the steps;
  • Enter the details of your new snowmobile if applicable;
  • Upload the supporting documents required to replace your right-of-entry sticker (photos of the right-of-entry sticker peeled off your snowmobile and cut in half***Make sure the sticker number is visible, to validate your request).
  • Finalize your purchase with a credit card.

You will need to download the original documents of your initial purchase from the FCMQ including the original trail permit sticker peeled off the front of your snowmobile.

Do not send documents and payment by mail. Documents and payment must be managed through your profile.


Depending on the reasons for the replacement, you will have to provide documents for the evaluation of the file. For example:

  • Snowmobile and annual trail permit have been damaged, the FCMQ will need photos of the damaged snowmobile, the damaged trail permit sticker, the original documents of your initial purchase (originals only) and an accident report if available.
  • If the snowmobile is sold, the snowmobiler must recover the trail permit sticker originally purchased by removing it from the snowmobile sold and the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the snowmobile, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report, the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the annual trail permit sticker, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report and the original documents of your initial purchase.

We recommend that you keep a copy of all these documents for your files.

Verifications may be carried out during the season, and in the event that you are subject to such verifications, the FCMQ may require you to return the original sticker by mail to its offices. It is therefore your responsibility to retain the original 2024 sticker. Failure to do so will result in additional charges to your credit card as a penalty.

* Please note that a FCMQ employee will verify the supporting documents submitted for the purchase of your replacement pass. In the event that the documents sent do not comply with FCMQ requirements, an e-mail will be sent to you and you should send us the correct documents within five (5) days. Failure to do so may result in additional charges to your credit card. You will not receive your replacement right of access until we have received the supporting documentation.

Online shopping platform

Click on the "Forgotten password" button on the platform and follow the steps.

You will receive an email message that will include it.

The FMCQ does not have access to this private information.

Enter your account using your initial email, make the change in the "Email" field of your profile and save before leaving the page.

Your account will now be updated with your new email address.

The name on the access right will be the one entered in the profile from which you purchased your access right, and it must be the owner of the snowmobile. If this is not the case, you will need to apply for a replacement access right.

For additional details, click here.

Temporary Trail Permit

You will receive, by email, your temporary access right valid for 21 days when you purchase your annual access right.

Replacement

You must contact the authorities to obtain an incident report. In addition, you must inform the FCMQ by the customer service or call us at 1-844-253-4343.

In order to obtain a new trail permit, you must go to the FCMQ online purchase platform and select the snowmobile that has been stolen by clicking on "Replacement trail permit".

Procedure :

  • Log in to your profile;
  • Select the replacement option;
  • Complete the steps;
  • Download the supporting documents (police report or photos of the trail permit sticker removed from the front of your snowmobile);*.
  • Finalize the purchase with a credit card.

View tutorials for purchasing a replacement trail permit on YouTube (available soon)

You will need to download the original documents of your initial purchase from the FCMQ.

Do not send documents and payment by mail. Documents and payment must be managed through your profile.


Depending on the reasons for the replacement, you will have to provide documents for the evaluation of the file. For example:

  • Snowmobile and annual trail permit have been damaged, the FCMQ will need photos of the damaged snowmobile, the damaged trail permit sticker, the original documents of your initial purchase and an accident report if available.
  • If the snowmobile is sold, the snowmobiler must recover the trail permit sticker originally purchased by removing it from the snowmobile sold and the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the snowmobile, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report, the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the annual trail permit sticker, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report and the original documents of your initial purchase.

We recommend that you keep a copy of all these documents for your files.


In the event that the supporting documents are not received, the FCMQ will charge your credit card for the amount of the annual trail permit originally purchased less the snowmobile liability insurance fees and less the $30.00 fee already paid.

 

For additional information, click here.

The trail permit may be transferred from one snowmobile to another belonging to the same owner. You will need to apply for a replacement trail permit via the FCMQ purchasing platform.

You must go to the FCMQ online platform and select the snowmobile that has been sold by clicking on "Replacement trail permit" of the latter.

Procedure :

  • Log in to your profile;
  • select the replacement option;
  • complete the steps;
  • enter the information of your new snowmobile if applicable;
  • finalize the purchase with a credit card.

View tutorials for purchasing a replacement trail permit on YouTube (available soon)

Regardless of the circumstances that require a replacement, the annual trail permit fee originally purchased will be replaced at a cost of $30.00 taxes included.

You will need to download the original documents of your initial purchase from the FCMQ including the original trail permit sticker.

Do not send documents and payment by mail. Documents and payment must be managed through your profile.


Depending on the reasons for the replacement, you will have to provide documents for the evaluation of the file. For example:

  • Snowmobile and annual trail permit have been damaged, the FCMQ will need photos of the damaged snowmobile, the damaged trail permit sticker, the original documents of your initial purchase and an accident report if available.
  • If the snowmobile is sold, the snowmobiler must recover the trail permit sticker originally purchased by removing it from the snowmobile sold and the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the snowmobile, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report, the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the annual trail permit sticker, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report and the original documents of your initial purchase.

We recommend that you keep a copy of all these documents for your files.


In the event that the supporting documents are not received, the FCMQ will charge your credit card for the amount of the annual trail permit originally purchased less the snowmobile liability insurance fees and less the $30.00 fee already paid.

 

For additional information, click here.

You can not use this trail permit because a trail permit is personal and non-transferable, and must be in the name of the snowmobile owner. You could receive a statement of offence, and you would have no civil liability if you did. You must purchase a new one with your information.

You must contact the authorities to obtain an incident report. In addition, you must inform the FCMQ by the customer service or call us at 1-844-253-4343.

In order to obtain a new trail permit, you must go to the FCMQ online purchase platform and select the snowmobile that has been stolen by clicking on "Replacement trail permit".

Procedure :

  • Log in to your profile;
  • Select the replacement option;
  • Complete the steps;
  • Enter the information of your new snowmobile;
  • Finalize the purchase with a credit card.

View tutorials for purchasing a replacement trail permit on YouTube (available soon)

You will need to download the original documents of your initial purchase from the FCMQ.

Do not send documents and payment by mail. Documents and payment must be managed through your profile.


Depending on the reasons for the replacement, you will have to provide documents for the evaluation of the file. For example:

  • Snowmobile and annual trail permit have been damaged, the FCMQ will need photos of the damaged snowmobile, the damaged trail permit sticker, the original documents of your initial purchase and an accident report if available.
  • If the snowmobile is sold, the snowmobiler must recover the trail permit sticker originally purchased by removing it from the snowmobile sold and the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the snowmobile, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report, the original documents of your initial purchase.
  • Theft of the annual trail permit sticker, the FCMQ will need, amongst other things, the police report and the original documents of your initial purchase.

We recommend that you keep a copy of all these documents for your files.


In the event that the supporting documents are not received, the FCMQ will charge your credit card for the amount of the annual trail permit originally purchased less the snowmobile liability insurance fees and less the $30.00 fee already paid.

For additional information, click here.

Antique Trail Permit

An antique snowmobile is a vehicle that is 19 years of age or more. For the 2020-2021 season, admissible snowmobiles will be the ones from model year 2001 or less.

No, since the system will automatically classify your snowmobile according to the information entered. So, if you enter a model year 2001 or older while entering your snowmobile information, when clicking on the purchase link the annual antique trail permit will be chosen at pre-sale cost.

Daily Trail Permits

A daily trail permit gives you access to the trails for a period of one (1) day, three (3) consecutive days or seven (7) consecutive days.

When you purchase your daily trail permit, you become a member of the FCMQ and are automatically covered by Intact Insurance's civil liability insurance worth $1,000,000.

You must enter your riding date.

Example, if you purchase on a Monday your 1-day trail permit, but wish to ride the following Saturday, you will choose the date on which that Saturday falls on.

 

Yes, just chose the date accordingly. Following your purchase confirmation, you will receive by email your trail permit along with all necessary documentation for your chosen riding day. You will enjoy all federated trail riding privileges during legal trail riding hours. 

No. Following your purchase confirmation, you will receive by email your trail permit along with all necessary documentation for your chosen riding day. You will enjoy all federated trail riding privileges during legal trail riding hours. 

No, you will not receive your daily trail permit sticker as you will be using the trails for a short period of time.

You will receive your daily trail permit by email, immediately after confirmation of your purchase, along with all the necessary documents for a valid excursion. You will be able to enjoy the federated trails until they close, depending on the validity of your chosen daily trail permit.

You will be able to print it out and carry it with you at all times during your ride.

Yes! Purchasing your daily trail permit, you become an FCMQ member, therefore automatically being insured with a 1 000 000$ civil liability insurance from Intact Insurance.

No, if you are already insured with your insurer and wish to be reimbursed the insurance portion of your trail permit, you must fil out the Intact insurance form.

The law stipulates that as a snowmobile owner, you must have a 1 000 000$ minimum, civil liability insurance guaranteeing compensation for material and bodily damage caused by your vehicle. This insurance is mandatory for all snowmobile drivers that ride in or out-of-trails.  

Please note you must ask for your reimbursement before your ride out.  

Details here

Security

OHV Law and other regulations

Besides the Act and Regulation respecting off-highway vehiclesmany other regulations, including the Highway Safety Code, contain articles related to snowmobile use.

You will find an internet link for each of these legal documents on our website.

For additional details, click here.

A helmet compliant with regulatory standards and proper footwear are mandatory no matter where the off-highway vehicle is driven. If the helmet is not equipped with a visor, goggles must be worn. Furthermore, all passengers aboard the snowmobile or transported in a sleigh or trailer (must be compliant to OHV laws) must also wear a helmet and goggles if the former is not equipped with a visor. However, if passengers are being transported in an enclosed closed sleigh or trailer, they are not required to wear goggles or a visor.

For additional details, click here.

Before leaving, ensure that your vehicle, regardless of model or type, is compliant with the Act respecting off-highway vehicles and is equipped with the following mandatory equipment:

  1. One white headlight
  2. One red taillight
  3. One red stoplight at the rear
  4. One rear-view mirror firmly attached to the left side of the vehicle
  5. An conform exhaust system
  6. A braking system
  7. A functional speedometer
  8. Any other equipment required by regulation.

Items 3, 4 and 7 from the list above only apply to snowmobiles built after January 1st, 1998.

It is strictly forbidden to modify or tamper with any of the components of the exhaust system. The owner of a carriage or trailer must equip this one with a red lamp, and must remain lit at all times.

The owner of sleighs and trailers must equip them with a red taillight, and the driver must ensure it remains lit at all times.

For additional details on the OHV act,  click here

It is forbidden to carry more passengers than what is indicated by the OHV manufacturer.

The carrying of a passenger on a snowmobile built for one is possible with the installation on of an add-on seat, however, certain conditions apply:

  • the seat must be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations;
  • vehicle weight limit restrictions must be respected.

Additionally, it is forbidden to latch onto, stand or jump onto a moving OHV.

The minimum age requirement to drive an OHV is 16 years-old.

A certification of knowledge and skills is mandatory for drivers of 16 or 17 years  in addition to holding a driver's licence unless said driver is holder of a valid drivers’ licence delivered by an authorized government authority other than la Société de l’assurance automobile du Quebec (for example, a driver's licence issued by the province of Ontario).

The Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Quebec has mandated the Conduipro group of driving schools to offer the proper training and deliver a knowledge and skills certification.

Online training is available for those who desire it or for those who do not have a Conduipro school in their region.

For additional details, click here.

You may ride with your child. However, by virtue of the Regulation respecting off-highway vehiclesthe passenger must sit at all times behind the driver, face forward and their feet must touch the floorboards.  The snowmobile must be designed for two people (touring or single seat snowmobile equipped with approved add-on seat)

The harness is not included in the Act.

The maximum speed limit allowed on a snowmobile is 70km/h. However, this speed limit may be lower if regulatory signage indicates otherwise.

In a case where OHVs are permitted to circulate within 100 m from a home, a health-related establishment or an area where open-air activities take place, such as cultural, educational, recreational or sporting, the maximum speed limit allowed for OHVs is 50 km/h

However, if within 30 m of these establishments, if circulation is still permitted, the maximum speed limit is 30 km/h (even if no speed limit signage is present).

Pay attention to noise near residential areas: When approaching a residential area, please reduce speed to reduce noise. Be sure to be particularly vigilant at night, in those areas overnight circulation is permitted.

Excessive speeds, alcohol abuse and careless driving are the primary causes of deadly accidents involving OHVs.

For additional information regarding speed limits, fines and conduct, click here.

By virtue of the Law, riding is forbidden everywhere between midnight and 6 am (article 12.2, Act respecting off-highway vehicles), unless a municipality/MRC has approved an exception and relevant and approved signage is installed at the entrance and exit of the zone in which times differ from what is indicated in the Act

Circulation is also forbidden between 10 pm and 6 am on trails located on an abandoned railroad right-of-way, by virtue of paragraph 2, of article 1 of the Regulation respecting off-highway vehicles.

Driving a snowmobile with impaired ability through alcohol, drugs or medication is prohibited.

In the event of an infraction, the penalties are the same as those applicable to the driver of any other road vehicle.

You are prohibited from driving on public roads, except in rare exceptions provided by the OHV law.

You can cross or drive on a public road only if road signs allow you to do so and if you have a valid driver's licence.

Snowbikes (ex. Timbersled) and Bombardier B12’s, are not authorized on the trails. Only snowmobile-registered vehicles are allowed.

Trail Wardens

The trail wardens' role (both club and/or provincial) is mainly centered on educating snowmobilers on safety matters. Wardens are supported by off-highway laws, along with the collaboration of clubs and police forces. The warden may issue courtesy tickets or (infraction) tickets if he uncovers irregularities.

Safety on snowmobile trails requires that wardens be present throughout the territory of FCMQ member clubs, and this without exception.

You must contact your local club to offer your services. The club will then register you to a one-day training course which is given each fall.

In order to become a (provincial) trail warden for la Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec, candidates must respect certain criteria to be admissible.

For additional information, we invite you to communicate with us by email at: securite@fcmq.qc.ca

General Information

Snowmobile trails are maintained by snowmobile clubs; if you notice that a trail is poorly groomed, contact the responsible club directly. For this, please consult the directory of snowmobile clubs.

If you have already contacted the club and wish to make a complaint, you can send your request to the FCMQ at info@fcmq.qc.ca with all the necessary information. (Issue, location, trail number, etc.) It will be processed and a follow-up will be done.

Many confuse the Act respecting off-highway vehicles and the government pilot-project (Arrêté 2015-2018) dating back to the winter of 2015-2016.

The pilot project was challenged by the FCMQ, supported by the tourism industry, resulting in it no longer being applied to snowmobiles. In fact, the Quebec government reversed its decision and issued a decree (MTMDET 2016-06) modifying this pilot project to address studded tires only, which applies to quads.

Studs have always been legal for snowmobiles, and the FCMQ continues to promote and support their use, which helps to substantially improve safety on icy trails and at road crossings due to greatly improved traction.

Snowmobilers

Operators 16 and 17 years old must have a certificate of competency demonstrating that they have the skills to operate a snowmobile in addition to holding a driver's licence. 

Visit the Conduipro website or contact them at 1 877 766-3443.

 

For more details, click here.

Under amendments to the Act respecting Of Highway Vehicles, a driver's licence is now required to operate a snowmobile on a trail, road, public land or municipally owned private land, effective September 10, 2021.

For additional information, click here

It is mandatory to register your snowmobile, even if it is only used on designated trails.

In addition, the licence plate must be attached to the snowmobile.

For additional details, click here.

It costs $99.30 to register your snowmobile, broken down as follows

  • SAAQ fees: $5.05
  • Registration fees (Govt.): $54.25
  • Contribution to assistance programs: $40

The amount of $40 is distributed as follows:

  • 4 $ for the infrastructure component I managed by the MTQ
  • 1 for Component II - protection of wildlife and wildlife habitats managed by the Fondation de la Faune du Québec
  • 35 paid into existing FCMQ programs (paid by MTQ and FCMQ)

IMPORTANT : There is no insurance contribution that pertains to off-highway vehicles. The Automobile Insurance Act do not foresee compensation for injuries sustained in an accident with these vehicles. According to the Act respecting off-highway vehicles, owners of off-highway vehicles (including snowmobiles) are obligated to possess a minimum public liability insurance coverage of $500,000. For more details regarding insurance, please click here.

A sleigh do not need to be registered.

According to the Act respecting off-highway vehicles, all sleighs or trailers pulled by an off-highway vehicle must be equipped with the following, which must comply with applicable regulations:

  • One red taillight (applicable only for carriages or trailers built after January 1st, 2015),
  • One red stoplight at the rear (applicable only for carriages or trailers built after January 1st, 1998),
  • Two red reflectors at the rear, installed as far apart as possible,
  • Two red reflectors on both left and right sides, installed at equal length from the front and from the rear,    
  • A rigid tow bar designed to prevent overturning or swerving, which pivots 90 degrees on either side and allows pitching without compromising the overall stability,
  • All other regulatory equipment.

The overall width of a carriage or a trailer pulled by an off-highway vehicle, must not exceed 1,5 meters wide.

The transport of people with a sleigh or trailer pulled by an off-highway vehicle is not permitted unless the sleigh or trailer is built according to regulatory standards. 

Trail conditions may change rapidly as temperature, snow and traffic conditions evolve. We invite you to verify directly with the snowmobile club and/or implicated local businesses before venturing out. The club list directory can be found here.

The interactive trail map allows you to verify the latest trail grooming operations.

Other sites provide information on trail conditions, you can find the list here.

Please note, for this season, there will be no printing of the trail map, nor of the services guide. We recommend you consult the web version of the trail map or you may also purchase our iMotoneige application to obtain all of the required information needed for planning your trips.

To be redirected to the iMotoneige application, click here.

The FCMQ does not prepare personalized itineraries. To plan your trip, we invite you to use our interactive trail map or iMotoneige in order to properly plan your itinerary:

You can also visit the websites of regional tourism associations (ATR). Loops are offered to inspire you and help build your own itinerary! You can also get their region trail maps, which contain information on points of service along the route. Many of these maps also offer loops.

The trail permit of other provinces or states is not valid in Quebec, just as the trail permit of Quebec is not recognized by the other provinces or states. If you travel in Ontario and Quebec, for example, you must have trail permits for each province.

 

Drivers aged 16 and 17 years of age must have proof that they are authorized to drive an off-road vehicle under the laws of their place of residence in addition to holding a driver's licence. Even if your province or state of residence allows you to drive a snowmobile under 16, you cannot drive in Quebec until you have reached the minimum age of 16.

 

Did you know that the laws in the province of Quebec differ from other regions?

In fact, if you plan to come and visit the beautiful landscapes of Quebec, you will have to make sure you respect the OHV law.

  •  A rearview mirror firmly attached to the left side of the vehicle, for all snowmobiles manufactured after January 1, 1998.
  • Every operator of an off-highway vehicle must be 16 years of age or over.
  • If the operator is a minor, he must hold a certificate obtained from an officer authorized by the Government and that attests that the operator has the competence and knowledge required to operate an off-highway vehicle. 
  • The owner of any off-highway vehicle shall hold a civil liability insurance contract in an amount of not less than $500,000 that covers bodily injury and property damage caused by the vehicle.
  • The driver of an Off-Highway Vehicle must have the vehicle registration certificate with him or her4.

 

Vehicules exempt from registration1

(4)  an off-highway vehicle used exclusively in activities held in compliance with standards prescribed in a regulation made or approved by the Minister of Education, Recreation and Sports under the Act respecting safety in sports (chapter S?3.1) and, in the cases provided for by regulation, an off-highway vehicle to which the Act respecting off-highway vehicles (chapter V?1.2) applies and a recreational vehicle.

(1) Highway Safety Code

Important: If you are a resident of Quebec, the license plate must be attached to the rear or left outer vertical surface of the track tunnel, as close as possible to the rear of the snowmobile.

Act respecting off-highway vehicles

Highway Safety Code

The trail permit is issued in the name of the owner of the snowmobile who can then lend his or her snowmobile to the driver of his or her choice, provided that he or she meets the requirements of the Act respecting off-highway vehicles.

The driver must have with him at all times proof of payment of the trail permit (large yellow receipt), proof of mandatory insurance (pink paper) and the snowmobile's registration certificate.

Reminder: The Act respecting off-highway vehicles specifies that the minimum age for driving a snowmobile in Quebec is 16 years of age. In addition, drivers aged 16 and 17 must hold a certificate of competence and knowledge demonstrating that they are qualified to operate a snowmobile.

NO, but Intact Insurance offers a "My Snowmobile and Me:" program that offers some benefits:

  • roadside assistance for snowmobiles at no extra charge, whichentitles you to three calls per year for these services:
    • towing in case of mechanical failure;
    • battery boost;
    • gasoline delivery;
    • trip itineraries;
    • information on the resale value or purchase price of a snowmobile;
    • concierge service;
    • health assistance and legal assistance (up to a maximum of $100 per occurrence and $300 per year).
  • free civil liability coverage for your trailer if you combine your car insurance with insurance for damage to your snowmobile;
  • a 5% discount, exclusively for FCMQ members.

For additional details, click here.

On the SAAQ website, you'll find all the information you need to enjoy snowmobiling in complete safety.

 

What the law says :

  • Minimum age for driving a snowmobile
  • Driver's license
  • Registering a snowmobile
  •  Documents to carry
  •  Etc.

Click here to learn more about these topics.


Common sense first :

  • Mandatory equipment
  • Before going snowmobiling
  • Information on trails, lakes and rivers
  • For your safety and the safety of others

Click here to learn more about these topics.

Don't forget to remove the trail permit sticker from the snowmobile when you sell it, thereby ensuring that the new owner cannot travel on a trail with an expired trail permit, and, therefore, without insurance!

You must contact the club that maintains the said trails.

For additional information, click here.

If you have already contacted the club and wish to make a complaint, you can send your request to the FCMQ at info@fcmq.qc.ca with all the necessary information. (Issue, location, trail number, etc.) It will be processed and a follow-up will be done.

Backcountry riding is becoming more and more popular. If you practice this activity, the FCMQ invites you to do so in a responsible manner, in full respect of wildlife and only in permitted areas. Off-trail type snowmobiles have different features and characteristics than trail-type snowmobiles, which means that their passage on trails can compromise trail conditions for other users.

REMINDER: A valid trail permit is mandatory when using a federated trail, regardless of the distance travelled, to get to your backcountry riding area.

For additional information, click here.

Motoneige Québec magazine

The Motoneige Québec magazine is sent free of charge to all snowmobile club members residing in Quebec (one issue per household).

There are several reasons why you may not receive your magazine:

  • The mailing address entered when you purchased your trail permit is incomplete or incorrect as required by Canada Post;
  • You have moved and the FCMQ has not received your change of address.

Contact the customer service of the FCMQ, telephone 1 844-253-4343, or fax 514-254-2066, to request a correction of your address.

 telephone 514-252-3076, or go to the Changement d’adresse section of the magazine Motoneige Québec web site.

For any request concerning the reception of your magazine, make sure you have your trail permit number (from the previous season) on hand. This number appears on the sticker of your vehicle and at the top right hand side on your "member copy".

All issues of Motoneige Québec magazine from 2013 to today are available here.

Contact the customer service of the FCMQ, telephone 1 844-253-4343, or fax 514-254-2066, to request the issue not received, and a copy will be sent to you.

iMotoneige

The iMotoneige application offers fast and efficient access to the map of all Quebec trails, without having a data plan or a cellular signal.

The application includes:

  • The layout of all snowmobile trails;
  • The location of all businesses listed in the FCMQ Services guide, such as dealerships, secure hotels, etc.
  • More than 700 services to enhance your outings!

The application has the same functionalities as our interactive map while adding some new features.

For additional details, click here.

The application is also available in French!
The language displayed is the one corresponding to the language setting of your mobile phone.

Cell phones using App Store or Google Play are compatible with the iMotoneige application.

Please contact the FCMQ customer service.

Please close the application and open it again.

If the problem persists, restart your phone.

If the problem is still unresolved, please go to our Online Support section by clicking here, and you will be redirected to the person responsible for the iMotoneige application.

Land Owners

By signing the official FCMQ Land Use Permission Form you automatically become a « named insured » under the FCMQ’s Third Party General Liability Insurance Policy.  It will provide coverage for you against any legal liability claims for property damage or bodily injury arising from the use of your property by the snowmobile club.

In addition, the FCMQ and its clubs purchase general insurance.  You are still responsible for carrying the usual liability coverage to cover any other non-snowmobile-related occurrences on your land, including liability coverage for any equipment, automobiles and snowmobiles you may own.

The FCMQ also has a $5 million Environmental Liability Insurance policy to cover clubs from claims arising from environmental incidents such as slow and gradual damages remaining undetected, and sudden and accidental damages.  These coverages extend environmental coverages offered under the General Liability Insurance.

The official FCMQ Land Use Permission Form has been developed in cooperation with our lawyer and insurance company to ensure that it complies with all of the terms and conditions of the FCMQ Third Party Liability Insurance Policy.  For you, this means the certainty of knowing you are covered in the event of a claim resulting from the snowmobile trail on your land.  By not signing this official form or by altering it in any way, you may place your liability coverage in jeopardy.  It is recommended that any special considerations be attached to the form as appendix initialed by both parties.

All you are doing is allowing the local club seasonal use of a specific portion of your land for a snowmobile trail.  We do not want to use all of your land, to prevent you from using any of it, or even to use the designated trail corridor in any other season.  The land is always yours to own and control.  You will always be able to put an end to this permission by using the procedure described further in answer to the 8th question.

Obviously, if you are a snowmobiler and a member of the FCMQ, you are entitled to utilise all snowmobile trails maintained by FCMQ-affiliated clubs including those that are located on your property.

The land use permission you give to your local snowmobile club is for winter use only as a snowmobile trail for snowmobiles displaying valid FCMQ Trail Permits.  Under the law, no other trail users are allowed on this trail or any other part of your property at any time of the year without your specific permission.  Your local club is responsible for patrolling the trail regularly during the winter, and for opening at the beginning of the season and closing at the end of the season any applicable, existing gates/barriers, etc..  The club will also sign the trail to indicate that it is exclusively for snowmobile use, including a trespass warning.  As legal Occupiers of that specified portion of your land during the winter, the local club can also act on your behalf to lay trespass charges against anyone who enters the trail without permission.

Before signing the Land Use Permission Form, talk to your club contact about any special needs, concerns or considerations you may have.  It is strongly recommended that the land owner and the club contact walk the proposed trail site together, specifying the exact layout, permitted width, and signage requirements, as well as such diverse items as noting work to be/not to be allowed, listing gates and fences that need attention, designating fields that need to be staked, crops that need protection, and agreeing on methods for water crossings.  If you are planning to do any winter work that might impact the snowmobile trail, this is also a good time to discuss it.  These items should be placed on a site map and/or in writing and attached to the Land Use Permission Form as an appendix initialed by both parties.

Should you have any concern throughout the snowmobiling season, we urge you to contact the president of your local club or your club representative immediately and advise him/her of the exact details of the matter.  Often, small irritations, when left to fester, can grow into larger difficulties that could have been easily resolved with an initial phone call.

If the snowmobile club representatives can not solve the problem, call the FCMQ representative for your region directly. If your concerns are still not satisfied within a reasonable time, you can ask the FCMQ to find solutions acceptable for all. Finally, you have the right to ask the court to revoke the Land Use Permission.  But before taking this drastic action, please consider that a sudden mid-season trail closure can be very difficult for all concerned, especially club volunteers.

The FCMQ Land Use Permission document typically used by snowmobile clubs allows you to set the duration of the agreement. However, the document also provides for the automatic renewal of the agreement for one (1) year following the expiry and subsequent renewal in future years unless you provide written notice to the club of your desire to cancel the agreement at least ninety (90) days in advance of the date of expiration.  If you wish to prevent the automatic renewal of the land use permission then the previously listed procedure would have to be used. 

In the province of Québec, the Québec Civil Code outlines the basic principles and regulations that govern land use permission.  To begin with, you obviously remain owner of the land on which the snowmobile trail is located and for which you have granted access.  The club becomes the occupant of the section of land on which the trail is located.  The club must use the land for the needs and in the manner spelled out in the agreement that you signed.  As indicated previously in the sixth question, it is thus imperative that the agreement contain all of the necessary details governing the use of the land, including the nature and extent of the work that may be carried out by the club.  As per the Civil Code, both the owner and the occupant may be held liable in the event of an accident that occurs on the trail.  It is for the very purpose of providing adequate protection for both landowners and clubs that the FCMQ has liability insurance coverage.  In the event of a claim, it is the responsibility of the FCMQ’s insurer to contend with it.

In 1974, local snowmobile clubs saw the need to form a provincial association, La Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec (FCMQ),  to represent their broader interests and to help coordinate, promote and integrate trail development.  This was the beginning of organized snowmobiling in Quebec.

Today, the FCMQ is a volunteer driven, non profit, grassroots organization that operates according to mandates set by its clubs at the Annual General Meeting, and under the immediate direction of a Board of Governors elected by the clubs, one from each of the FCMQ’s thirteen districts across the province.  At the same time, each community based snowmobile club retains its own autonomy and continues to function independently, to best serve the needs of its own community.  At its permanent office in Terrebonne, the Federation has a staff of some thirty paid employees who work in close collaboration with the Executive, major committees chairs, and other FCMQ volunteers.

Thanks to the FCMQ, organized snowmobiling has a proven track record in Quebec. As a landowner, you are dealing with a local club backed by a professional, effective association that operates the largest recreational trail system in the world.  No other trail use group in Canada can offer you the protection, stability and consistency of organized snowmobiling.  No other group has such a long standing, successful and amicable relationship with Quebec’s private land owners.  The FCMQ is your best insurance that you and your land will be treated right.

You should contact the club in your area.

For additional details, click here.

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