77.01 PURPOSE.

The purpose of this chapter is to permit the operation of golf carts on certain streets in the City, as authorized by Section 321.247 of the Code of Iowa, as amended. This chapter applies whenever a golf cart is operated on any street or alley, subject to those exceptions stated herein.

77.02 OPERATION OF GOLF CARTS PERMITTED.

Golf carts registered with the City of Ely may be operated upon the streets of the City by persons at least 18 years of age possessing a valid Iowa operator’s license, except as prohibited in Section 77.03 of this chapter.  “Off-road utility vehicles,” as defined in Section 321I.1(16) of the Code of Iowa, shall be included in the category of golf cart for the purpose of this chapter.  The number of occupants shall not exceed the number of seats installed by the manufacturer in said vehicle.

77.03 PROHIBITED STREETS.

Golf carts shall not be operated upon any City street which is a primary road extension through the City. However, golf carts may cross such a primary road extension.  State Street is hereby designated a primary road extension in the City.

77.04 EQUIPMENT.

Golf carts operated upon City streets shall be equipped with at least the following:

   1.   A slow moving vehicle sign.

   2.   A bicycle safety flag, the top of which shall be a minimum of five feet from ground level.

   3.   Golf carts operated on City streets shall be equipped with adequate brakes, headlights, and taillights.

77.05 HOURS.

Golf carts may be operated on City streets only between sunrise and sunset.

77.06 SPEED.

No golf carts shall be operated on any City street at a speed in excess of 25 miles per hour.

77.07 GOLF CARTS REGISTERED.

No person shall operate a golf cart on any public street, or alley for any purpose unless said golf cart is registered by the City of Ely. 

   1.   Golf cart owners may register a golf cart with the City Clerk/Administrator using forms provided by the City.

   2.   The Clerk/Administrator shall not register a golf cart until the following has occurred:

      A.   Owner has provided proof owner has liability insurance covering operation of golf carts on City streets.

      B.   The Clerk/Administrator has inspected the vehicle to verify it meets the requirements of this chapter.

      C.   Owner has paid the registration fee set out below.

   3.   The registration sticker shall be displayed visibly and prominently on the left rear fender.

   4.   All registrations issued shall uniquely identify the name and address of the owner.

   5.   The registration fee shall be $25.00.

   6.   Registrations shall be effective from April 1 through March 31 of each year.

      A.   Registration may be renewed after owner has filed an application to renew with the Clerk/Administrator and all conditions set out in Sect 77.07 (3) have been met.

      B.   Fee for a renewed registration shall be $25.00.