NILES, Ohio- Operating an all-terrain vehicle in the city of Niles may become a much more expensive pastime under a new proposed ordinance in the city.

Niles city council is considering an ordinance that would fine people who are caught riding ATVs in the city up to $1,000.

They could also face up to six months in jail.

Punishment would increase for repeat offenders, with a person's ATV being permanently confiscated for a third offense.

Councilman Ed Stredney said it is dangerous for police to have to pursue people who are operating ATVs.

"If we start chasing them down roads, 70 miles per hour on a four-wheeler with little protection on them, it's dangerous for them, dangerous for residents. It's tough, but our police department has caught nine or 10 in the past two months, I believe," Stredney said.

The new ordinance is in its first reading before council.