Welcome to the DMV (Department of Mutant Vehicles). The DMV at Lakes of Fire is in charge of all mobile art. Developed from a long history of DMV at That Thing In The Desert, the LoF DMV is ever evolving. We are here to ensure that mobile art at LoF stays alive and evolves into art that benefits the event as a whole. As such, there are certain procedures and criteria that the DMV follows.
These are Registering Mutant Vehicle prior to the event.
Creating policy on Mutant Vehicle operation and use at the event.
And creating criteria to approve invitations for Mutant Vehicles.
To register your Mutant Vehicle please fill out the master form.
FAQ
What is a Mutant Vehicle?
A Mutant Vehicle is a radically and usually permanently modified vehicle whose presence is one of anything but a regular vehicle you would see on the road. They are whimsical and surreal works of art that are enhanced with movement.
Why is there a DMV?
The LoF DMV was started at the beginning of LoF to build a MV community in the Great Lakes Region and ensure this unique type of art would be allowed at the event for years to come. There is a lot of liability that comes with art that can move at a primarily pedestrian event. The DMV works to ensure the safety of not only the event and its participants but the MV owners as well.
Do I have to register?
Yes. There are many things that need to happen before the event starts. Your registration aids the DMV in being prepared for your arrival.
What is the process of registering a MV?
There is a registration page on the website that is linked above that will direct you to the registration form. Once that form is filled out and submitted the DMV will review it and determine if the application qualifies for an invite to LoF. At that point the registrant will be notified of the results and instructed on any following steps.
How do I build an Mutant Vehicle?
It is your art, the DMV will not tell you how to build your art. There are many resources on the web about building MVs that we encourage all to research.
What are the criteria used for reviewing MV applications?
There are many factors that go into deciding whether or not a MV will be licensed. Wow factor, interactivity, concept, execution, and more. To better understand what makes for a great or not so great MV idea please visit http://tribes.tribe.net/bmmv and go to the photo section. Start with the oldest photo and work forward. It is a wonderful photo essay of Mutant Vehicles and the history behind the DMV at that thing in the desert which is where we have learned a lot of what is used today in the LoF DMV.
What are the rules of driving a MV?
All MVs
Must adhere to a speed limit of 5mph or less.
Must yield to pedestrians, bicycles, staff and emergency vehicle traffic.
Must not allow anyone to board or debark while MV is in motion.
Must operate their MV in a safe, sane and sober manner.
Must not operate under the influence of any mind or mood altering substances including alcohol.
What do I do once I arrive at LoF with my MV?
As you enter through Gate you will need to present Gate with your MV Invitation to be allowed through. If you do not have this Invitation your MV will not be allowed into the event and will be directed to the parking lot until DMV can find your paperwork. Don’t forget your Invite.
Can I have a trailer?
Yes, it must be in the application, lit for night use from all sides and the hitch area must be protected from anyone getting caught up between the tow vehicle and the trailer.
Are lights required for night?
Yes, your MV should be lit well enough for everyone to see from all sides and hazardous (trailer hitch) items should be well lit.
Is there a minimum level of lights for night?
Yes. Minimum lighting allowed is head lights and tail lights. But do note that minimum effort gets minimum attention in the review process.
What kind of lighting is preferred by the DMV?
The kind you can see from very far away that is over the top and awe inspiring. Radical Illumination!
Do I have to register?
Yes.
What happens if I don’t register?
Your MV will have a lovely space in the parking lot or permanently parked at your camp.
What do I do if my Mutant Vehicle breaks down at the event?
Plead with the wonderful volunteers at DPW to help you push it out of the way then, if needed, contact Gate for information on a tow truck if needed.
Why do I need to register for night and day time licenses?
The DMV has different requirements for day and night licenses. This helps us evaluate your MV in the best possible way.
What can my vehicle NOT look like?
Emergency vehicles, law enforcement vehicles or anything remotely resembling them. Your MV also cannot look like a golf cart.
Do I have to give rides?
Part of the privilege of getting an MV license is contributing to the event by sharing your art with other participants. While we understand that it is not possible at all times, MV owners should make their transportation available to all and give rides to people where possible. MVs are not meant to be a taxi service but guarantee a trip to 'somewhere'.
Can passengers board while I am moving?
NO. All vehicles must be stopped during loading and unloading passengers. DO NOT BOARD A MOVING MV!
Can I bring a boat for the water?
Please refer to the venue’s rules on the venue website on lake usage. The DMV doesn’t hold jurisdiction over the use of the lake. That is under the authority of the venue owner.