SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6453

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background: A golf cart is defined as a gas powered or electric powered four-wheeled vehicle originally designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting purposes and has a top speed of 20 mph.

Cities or counties may create golf cart zones by adopting an ordinance or resolution that authorizes the incidental use of golf carts on public roads that have speed limits of 25 mph or less. Golf cart drivers within golf cart zones are subject to the same rules of the road as motor vehicles, including seatbelt requirements. Golf carts operating within a golf cart zone must be equipped with reflectors, seatbelts, and rearview mirrors. A person operating a golf cart on public roads in golf cart zones must be at least 16 years old and must have either completed a driver education course or have previous experience driving as a licensed driver.

Local jurisdictions that create golf cart zones may restrict the operation of golf carts to daylight hours. In addition, local jurisdictions may require a decal to be displayed on golf carts and may charge a fee for the decal.

Summary of Bill: In addition to setting the hours that a golf cart may be operated in a golf car zone, the legislative authority of a city or county is authorized to set other operational requirements for golf carts.

The legislative authority of a city or county is also authorized to require additional equipment beyond reflectors, seat belts, and rearview mirrors.