Argos Town Council members passed an updated golf cart and off-road vehicles ordinance when they met Wednesday.
Back in October, members agreed to amend their existing golf cart ordinance to allow utility vehicles on the roads within the town limits. After spending multiple meetings working out the specifics, a final draft of the ordinance was presented to council members this week.
The definitions of a ‘golf cart’ and ‘off-road vehicle’ are determined by existing Indiana Codes. The Town’s policy also notes that ‘off-road vehicles’ must have a steering wheel, not handlebars or anything other steering devices, as well as a foot pedal to engage the engine for movement.
Argos Clerk-Treasurer Lisa Mullaney noted that owners need to be up to date on existing statutes related to the operations of these vehicles because there are some state or federal restrictions that may apply.
The Argos Chief of Police is the authority figure who has been entrusted with determining if vehicles fit the necessary classification.
One of the major changes to the ordinance is that registration will now be required on an annual basis, rather than every four years.
All residents who wish to operate either a golf cart or off road vehicle in town must register with the Argos Police Department by completing an application and paying a yearly fee of $50 for each vehicle they register.
If someone violates any of the provisions in the o
A first offense will cost you $25, a second offense will result in a $50 fine and a third offense will be $75. If someone violates the ordinance more than three times, their registration will be revoked and their vehicle will no longer be allowed on town roads.
The rules were suspended so the ordinance could be considered on all three readings Wednesday night. The motion to adopt it passed with a vote of 3-1.
Council members George Null, Charles Randy Snead and Shawn Harley voted in favor while Councilwoman Suzanne Umbaugh voted in opposition. Councilman Dylan Colburn was not present at the meeting.
The ordinance went into effect after its adoption, meaning that all the new rules are now applicable. However, if you currently have a valid registration sticker for a golf cart, it will not need to be renewed until it expires.
Click the following link to access the 2019 Golf Cart and Off-Road Vehicle Ordinance.
