An issue that has been debated for several years at Hilltown Township supervisors meetings was resolved Monday evening, when supervisors unanimously voted to adopt an ordinance regulating the use of recreational vehicles.

In what supervisors described as a "noise ordinance," the operation of all motorized dirt bikes, mini-bikes, ATVs, go-carts, and snowmobiles within the township will now be regulated.

According to the ordinance, recreational vehicles are permitted to be operated from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. During these times the vehicles may be operated for no longer than two hours at a time, with a mandated one-hour rest period between each period of use.

The ordinance also states that no more than three of these specified motor vehicles can be operated on a lot at the same time, and the noise emitted may not exceed 99 decibels at a distance of 20 inches at idle.

Exempt from the ordinance are township vehicles, as well as vehicles used for snow and ice removal.

Brooke Rush, a Hilltown resident and ATV enthusiast, said he was very concerned about the passage of the ordinance, saying it was "interesting and restrictive."

"I find it incredibly offensive when people mow and weed whack on Sunday," he said, adding that he would never ask the board to pass legislation prohibiting it.

Rush wondered what would be the next activity to be regulated by the board.

"What if someone decides we should limit boating? What if they say boating is too fast?" he asked.

Supervisor Jim Groff acknowledged Rush's concerns, saying he, too, is an ATV rider. Groff assured Rush that as long as he did not modify his ATVs he would be well within the legal limits.

"I'm an advocate just like you are," said Groff. "But I think when they get obnoxious, the sound gets ridiculous.

"I'm not an advocate for that," he said.

Board Chair Jack McIlhinney said he thought the board had been pretty cautious, noting that they have been discussing and debating the issue for three years.

"And I guarantee you that if we get any complaints about the noise of oars hitting the water that we will take to that too," he said.