(A) Applicable state statutes.
(1) All operation of a golf cart in the city shall, at all times, conform to M.S. § 169.045, as may be amended from time to time.
(2) Golf carts, by their very nature, are not required to be registered.
(B) Definitions. For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
GOLF CART. A motorized (gas or electric) three- or four-wheel vehicle commonly used to transport golfers and their golfing equipment while playing the sport of golf.
ROADWAY OR STREET. The entire right-of-way including the paved portion as well as all banks, ditches, shoulders and medians.
(C) Application process.
(1) Permit required. No operation of a golf cart is allowed on any right-of-way within the city unless issued a permit by the city and the permit fee is paid. The cost of the permit shall be set by the city from time to time and is valid for one year from the issuance date. A permit will not be granted or renewed unless the following conditions are met:
(a) The applicant has provided evidence of insurance;
(b) The applicant has not had his or her driver's license revoked as a result of criminal proceedings; and
(c) The applicant may be required to provide a certificate signed by a physician that the applicant is able to safely operate a golf cart.
(2) Permit application. Every application for a permit shall be made on a form supplied by the city and shall contain all of the following:
(a) Application date;
(b) Applicant's name and address;
(c) Make, model, and year for each motorized golf cart;
(d) Driver's license or reason for not having a license;
(e) Proof of insurance, company, and policy number for the operation of the golf cart; and
(f) Other information as the city may require.
(D) Special restrictions.
(1) Noise. While in operation within the city, the golf cart must have the exhaust muffled to assure quiet operation.
(2) Insurance. No person shall operate a golf cart without valid insurance in compliance with M.S. § 65B.48, Subd. 5.
(3) Hours of operation. Golf carts may be in operation between sunrise and sunset.
(4) Location. Golf carts may be operated on city streets but may not be operated on state or federal highways except to cross at designated intersections.
(5) Poor conditions. Golf carts may not be operated in inclement weather or when visibility is impaired due to weather, smoke, fog, or any condition when there is insufficient light to see persons or vehicles on the roadway at a minimum distance of 500 feet.
(6) Rear-view mirrors required. Golf carts shall be equipped with a rear-view mirror in compliance with M.S. § 169.70.
(7) Slow-moving vehicle. Golf carts shall display the slow-moving vehicle emblem when operating on designated roadways in compliance with M.S. § 169.045, Subd. 4.
(E) Effective date. This section shall take effect and be in force from and after its passage and publication. The ordinance codified herein was published on 8-7-1998.
(Ord. 2022-01(71), passed 6-20-2022) Penalty, see § 71.99