(a) Subject to the requirements set forth herein, the use of "under-speed vehicles," "utility vehicles," and "mini-trucks" (collectively referred to herein as "multi-use vehicles") shall be permitted on Village streets where the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less.
(1) "Mini-truck" means a vehicle that has four wheels, is propelled by an electric motor with a rated power of 7,500 watts or less or an internal combustion engine with a piston displacement capacity of 660 cubic centimeters or less, has a total dry weight of 900 to 2,200 pounds, contains an enclosed cabin and a seat for the vehicle operator, resembles a pickup truck or van with a cargo area or bed located at the rear of the vehicle, and was not originally manufactured to meet federal motor vehicle safety standards.
(2) "Under-speed vehicle" means a three- or four-wheeled vehicle, including a vehicle commonly known as a golf cart, with an attainable speed on a paved level surface of not more than 20 miles per hour and with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 3,000 pounds.
(3) "Utility vehicle" means a self-propelled vehicle designed with a bed, principally for the purpose of transporting material or cargo in connection with construction, agricultural, forestry, ground maintenance, lawn and garden, materials handling, or similar activities. Examples of utility vehicles include Rangers, Razors, and Gators.
(b) (1) Prior to the operation of a multi-use vehicle on Village streets, the multi-use vehicle must pass an inspection conducted by the Coldwater Police Department ("CPD"). A copy of the inspection form is attached to Ordinance 1696 as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by reference as if set out in full.
A. The inspection fee for a newly purchased multi-use vehicle is fifty dollars ($50.00).
B. The inspection fee for a multi-use vehicle that has been inspected by another local law enforcement agency in the State of Ohio is twenty dollars ($20.00).
(2) At the time of the inspection, the owner/operator of the multi-use vehicle must present the following to CPD: (1) a valid driver's license; (2) proof of insurance; and (3) payment for the inspection fee (if applicable).
A. If your multi-use vehicle is an under-speed vehicle, the owner/operator also must provide to CPD the gross vehicle weight.
B. If your multi-use vehicle is a mini-truck, the owner/operator also must provide to CPD the unloaded weight.
(3) If a multi-use vehicle passes inspection, the owner/operator will be issued an inspection sticker. The sticker must be placed on the lower left side of the vehicle's windshield (driver's side). The sticker must remain visible at all times while operating the vehicle on Village streets. If an inspection sticker is lost, damaged, or destroyed, a replacement sticker must be obtained from CPD at a cost of five dollars ($5.00).
(c) Prior to the operation of a multi-use vehicle on Village streets, the vehicle must be registered in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4503, and titled in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4505. Out-of-state multi-use vehicles are not permitted on Village streets.
(d) All multi-use vehicles must be operated in accordance with all applicable state and local traffic laws. No person shall operate a golf cart on any State Highway, in particular Second Street and Main Street, except to cross at an intersection or to access the closest local street or alleyway. In addition multi-use vehicles are prohibited in public parks and public works grounds unless authorized by the Council or Village Manager or are parked in recognized parking lots.
(e) All multi-use vehicles, at a minimum, must have the following properly functioning equipment:
(1) Brake lights (two), taillights (two), head lights (two), and turn signals (two front; two rear);
(2) A horn;
(3) A rearview mirror;
(4) A windshield;
(5) Brakes and a brake system;
(6) A steering mechanism;
(7) One seat belt per occupant of the vehicle; and each occupant of the vehicle shall be restrained by the seat belt during operation of the vehicle; and
(8) Appropriate tires that are free of major bumps, bulges, breaks, or any other unsafe condition.
(f) A violation of this section shall be a minor misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than one-hundred dollars ($100.00). Each day of non-compliance shall constitute a separate violation.
(Ord. 1696. Passed 8-24-20.)