Lazaro Aleman
ECB Publishing, Inc.
Monticello has been a golf cart city since 2008, when elected officials approved an ordinance allowing the use of the small, motorized golf carts on designated streets and roadways, provided that certain regulations were followed.
The council’s action, in fact, was based on a traffic study that found that golf carts could be operated safely within the city on a limited basis, given the establishment of certain constraints.
Ever since, a small percentage of city residents have been able to enjoy traveling about the town in this mode of transportation without problem. Now, however, it appears that some folks may be ignoring the rules, causing the Monticello Police Department to issue a reminder of the regulations.
The ordinance defines a golf cart as a vehicle with four wheels originally designed for use on a golf course and powered by a battery or internal combustion motor. It does not mean an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) or side-by-side vehicle, neither of which is allowed on city streets.
As with any motorized vehicle, golf-cart operators must be 16 years of age or older, possess a valid driver’s license, and carry personal and liability insurance. Golf carts, moreover, must be registered with City Hall and the MPD.
Per the ordinance, the following rules apply to the use of golf carts within the city:
• Golf carts may not be operated on sidewalks or public rights-of-way that are designated as bicycle trails. The carts also may not be operated around the courthouse circle, as apparently has happened on occasion.
• Golf carts may not be operated on two specified public roads. These roads are U.S. 19, also known as North and South Jefferson Street; and U.S. 90, also known as East and West Washington Street. The only exceptions to golf-carts using these two roads are if it’s to cross one of the roads at an authorized location (marked by signage at crossroads of: U.S. 19 with Palmer Mill Rd, and Pearl Street, and the crossroads of U.S. 90 with Olive and Waukeenah Streets ); or if one or both of the roads are closed for an authorized event.
• Golf carts may only be operated during daylight hours, unless the vehicle is equipped with headlights, brake lights, lighted turn signals and a windshield.
• Golf carts may only be operated on city streets that are designated for golf carts use, as indicated by the appropriate signage.
• In addition to the applicable state standards for the operation of motorized vehicles, golf carts operating within the city may not have increased power, or wheelbase or tire modifications that deviate from the manufacturer’s standard for gas or electric golf carts. The maximum allowed speed for golf carts within the city is 20 mph. Speed-modified or “hybrid” golf carts are specifically prohibited from operating on city streets and roadways.
Other of rules that apply to golf carts within the city: The number of occupants in a golf cart may not exceed its seating capacity; no occupant of a golf cart may stand while it’s in motion; all equipment on the vehicle must be operational; and golf carts must be operated in accordance with all traffic regulations. Golf carts may never obstruct or impede the traffic flow.
Lastly, golf carts must be registered with the city and pay an annual registration fee. That fee is $25, but may be reduced by half if the registration is done early. The decal for the valid registration must be displayed visibly on the vehicle as instructed by the city. And proof of insurance must be shown at the time of the registration.
As with any motorized vehicle, gulf carts are subject to traffic law and may be issued citations by police for violations, including monetary fines.
For more information about the golf cart law or to register a vehicle, call City Hall at (850) 342-0153 or the MPD at (850) 342-0150.
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