CHAPTER 75: BICYCLES, MOTORCYCLES, AND OFF-ROAD VEHICLES
Section
General Provisions
   75.01   Bicycles; application of Title VII
   75.02   Operation of motorized bicycle
   75.03   Electric bicycles
   75.04   Rules for bicycles, motorcycles, and snowmobiles
   75.05   Prohibition against attaching bicycles and sleds to vehicles
   75.06   Riding bicycles; motorcycles abreast
   75.07   Equipment of bicycles
   75.08   Riding bicycles upon sidewalks
   75.09   Safe riding regulations for bicycles
   75.10   Parking; locks
   75.11   Parent’s responsibility
   75.12   Suspension of riding privileges; impounding of bicycles
Snowmobiles, Off-Highway Motorcycles, and All-Purpose Vehicles
   75.25   Definitions
   75.26   Equipment
   75.27   Code application; prohibited operation
   75.28   Permitted operation
   75.29   Licensing requirements of operator
   75.30   Maintenance of vehicles for hire
   75.31   Accident reports
   75.32   Impounding of vehicle
   75.33   Local control within police power
   75.34   Registration of vehicles
   75.35   Certificate of title; prohibitions
Golf Carts
   75.50   Definition
   75.51   Equipment
   75.52   Driver restriction
   75.53   Insurance
   75.54   Cart inspection
   75.55   Title and license plates
 
   75.99   Penalty
Statutory reference:
   Bicycle regulations to be consistent with state law, see R.C. § 4511.07(A)(8)
   Protective eye devices required for motorcycle operators and passengers; helmets required for
    persons under 18 years of age, see O.A.C. § 4501-17-01
GENERAL PROVISIONS
§ 75.01 BICYCLES; APPLICATION OF TITLE VII.
   (A)   The provisions of this title that are applicable to bicycles and electric bicycles apply whenever a bicycle or electric bicycle is operated upon any highway or upon any path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.
   (B)   Except as provided in division (D) of this section, a bicycle operator or electric bicycle operator who violates any provisions of this title described in division (A) of this section that is applicable to bicycles or electric bicycles may be issued a ticket, citation, or summons by a law enforcement officer for the violation in the same manner as the operator of a motor vehicle would be cited for the same violation. A person who commits any such violation while operating a bicycle or electric bicycle shall not have any points assessed against the person’s driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, temporary instruction permit, or probationary license under R.C. § 4510.036.
   (C)   Except as provided in division (D) of this section, in the case of a violation of any provision of this title described in division (A) of this section by a bicycle operator, electric bicycle operator, or motor vehicle operator when the trier of fact finds that the violation by the motor vehicle operator endangered the lives of bicycle riders or electric bicycle riders at the time of the violation, the court, notwithstanding any provision of the Ohio Revised Code to the contrary, may require the bicycle operator, electric bicycle operator, or motor vehicle operator to take and successfully complete a bicycling skills course approved by the court in addition to or in lieu of any penalty otherwise prescribed by this Traffic Code or the Ohio Revised Code for that violation.
   (D)   Divisions (B) and (C) of this section do not apply to violations of R.C. § 4511.19, or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance.
(R.C. § 4511.52)
(Prior Code, § 474.01)
§ 75.02 OPERATION OF MOTORIZED BICYCLE.
   (A)   No person shall operate a motorized bicycle upon a highway or any public or private property used by the public for purposes of vehicular travel or parking, unless all of the following conditions are met:
      (1)   The person is 14 or 15 years of age and holds a valid probationary motorized bicycle license issued after the person has passed the test provided for in this section, or the person is 16 years of age or older and holds either a valid commercial driver’s license issued under R.C. Chapter 4506 or a driver’s license issued under R.C. Chapter 4507 or a valid motorized bicycle license issued after the person has passed the test provided for in this section, except that if a person is 16 years of age, has a valid probationary motorized bicycle license and desires a motorized bicycle license, the person is not required to comply with the testing requirements provided for in this section.
      (2)   The motorized bicycle is equipped in accordance with the rules adopted under division (B) of this section and is in proper working order.
      (3)   The person, if under 18 years of age, is wearing a protective helmet on the person’s head with the chin strap properly fastened and the motorized bicycle is equipped with a rearview mirror.
      (4)   The person operates the motorized bicycle when practicable within three feet of the right edge of the roadway obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles.
   (B)   The Director of Public Safety, subject to R.C. Chapter 119, shall adopt and promulgate rules concerning protective helmets, the equipment of motorized bicycles, and the testing and qualifications of persons who do not hold a valid driver’s or commercial driver’s license. The test shall be as near as practicable to the examination required for a motorcycle operator’s endorsement under R.C. § 4507.11. The test shall also require the operator to give an actual demonstration of the operator’s ability to operate and control a motorized bicycle by driving one under the supervision of an examining officer.
   (C)   Every motorized bicycle license expires on the birthday of the applicant in the fourth or eighth year after the date it is issued, based on the period of renewal requested by the applicant. No motorized bicycle license shall be issued for a period longer than eight years. A person who is 65 years of age or older may only apply for a motorized bicycle license that expires on the birthday of the applicant in the fourth year after the date it is issued.
   (D)   No person operating a motorized bicycle shall carry another person upon the motorized bicycle.
   (E)   The protective helmet and rearview mirror required by division (A)(3) of this section shall, on and after January 1, 1985, conform with rules adopted by the Director under division (B) of this section.
   (F)   Whoever violates division (A), (D), or (E) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor.
(R.C. § 4511.521) (Prior Code, § 474.11)
Statutory reference:
   Suspension of probationary motorized bicycle license by the state, see R.C. § 4510.34
§ 75.03 ELECTRIC BICYCLES.
   (A)   (1)   On and after January 1, 2020, manufacturers and distributors of electric bicycles shall permanently affix a label, in a prominent location, to each electric bicycle. The label shall specify whether the electric bicycle is a class 1, class 2, or class 3 electric bicycle, the top assisted speed that the electric bicycle is capable of reaching, and the motor wattage of the electric bicycle.
      (2)   No person shall modify an electric bicycle in a manner that changes the top assisted speed that the electric bicycle is capable of reaching unless the person also modifies the label required under division (A)(1) of this section to reflect the modification.
   (B)   (1)   The manufacturer of an electric bicycle shall ensure that the electric bicycle complies with the equipment and manufacturing requirements for bicycles established by the consumer product safety commission under 16 C.F.R. §§ 1512 et seq.
      (2)   The manufacturer shall manufacture all class 1 electric bicycles and class 3 electric bicycles so that when the rider ceases pedaling the electric motor ceases to provide assistance. The manufacturer shall manufacture all class 2 electric bicycles so that when the rider applies the brakes or releases or activates a switch or similar mechanism the electric motor ceases to provide assistance.
      (3)   All class 3 electric bicycles shall be equipped with a speedometer that displays the speed of the electric bicycle in miles per hour.
   (C)   (1)   The operation of a class 1 electric bicycle and a class 2 electric bicycle is permitted on a path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles or on a shared-use path, unless the county, township, municipal corporation, other local authority, or state agency as defined in R.C. § 1.60 with control over the path by resolution, ordinance, or rule prohibits the use of a class 1 electric bicycle or class 2 electric bicycle on such a path.
      (2)   No person shall operate a class 3 electric bicycle on a path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles or a shared-use path unless that path is within or adjacent to a highway or the county, township, municipal corporation, or local authority, or state agency as defined in R.C. § 1.60 with control over the path by resolution, ordinance, or rule authorizes the use of a class 3 electric bicycle on such a path.
      (3)   No person shall operate a class 1 electric bicycle, a class 2 electric bicycle, or a class 3 electric bicycle on a path that is intended to be used primarily for mountain biking, hiking, equestrian use, or other similar uses, or any other single track or natural surface trail that has historically been reserved for non-motorized use, unless the county, township, municipal corporation, other local authority, or state agency as defined in R.C. § 1.60 with control over the path by resolution, ordinance, or rule authorizes the use of a class 1 electric bicycle, a class 2 electric bicycle, or a class 3 electric bicycle on such a path.
      (4)   Divisions (C)(2) and (C)(3) of this section do not apply to a law enforcement officer, or other person sworn to enforce the criminal and traffic laws of the state, using an electric bicycle while in the performance of the officer’s duties.
   (D)   (1)   No person under 16 years of age shall operate a class 3 electric bicycle; however, a person under 16 years of age may ride as a passenger on a class 3 electric bicycle that is designed to accommodate passengers.
      (2)   No person shall operate or be a passenger on a class 3 electric bicycle unless the person is wearing a protective helmet that meets the standards established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission or the American Society for Testing and Materials.
   (E)   (1)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever operates an electric bicycle in a manner that is prohibited under division (C) of this section and whoever violates division (D) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
      (2)   The offenses established under division (E)(1) of this section are strict liability offenses and strict liability is a culpable mental state for purposes of R.C. § 2901.20. The designation of these offenses as strict liability offenses shall not be construed to imply that any other offense, for which there is no specified degree of culpability, is not a strict liability offense.
(R.C. § 4511.522)
§ 75.04 RULES FOR BICYCLES, MOTORCYCLES, AND SNOWMOBILES.
   (A)   As used in this section, SNOWMOBILE has the same meaning as given that term in R.C. § 4519.01.
   (B)   (1)   No person operating a bicycle or electric bicycle shall ride other than upon or astride the permanent and regular seat attached thereto or carry any other person upon such bicycle or electric bicycle other than upon a firmly attached and regular seat thereon, and no person shall ride upon a bicycle or electric bicycle other than upon such a firmly attached and regular seat.
      (2)   No person operating a motorcycle shall ride other than upon or astride the permanent and regular seat or saddle attached thereto, or carry any other person upon such motorcycle other than upon a firmly attached and regular seat or saddle thereon, and no person shall ride upon a motorcycle other than upon such a firmly attached and regular seat or saddle.
      (3)   No person shall ride upon a motorcycle that is equipped with a saddle other than while sitting astride the saddle, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle.
      (4)   No person shall ride upon a motorcycle that is equipped with a seat other than while sitting upon the seat.
      (5)   No person operating a bicycle or electric bicycle shall carry any package, bundle, or article that prevents the driver from keeping at least one hand upon the handlebars.
      (6)   No bicycle, electric bicycle, or motorcycle shall be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for which it is designed and equipped. No motorcycle shall be operated on a highway when the handlebars rise higher than the shoulders of the operator when the operator is seated in the operator’s seat or saddle.
   (C)   (1)   Except as provided in division (C)(3) of this section, no person shall operate or be a passenger on a snowmobile or motorcycle without using safety glasses or other protective eye device. Except as provided in division (C)(3) of this section, no person who is under the age of 18 years, or who holds a motorcycle operator’s endorsement or license bearing a “novice” designation that is currently in effect as provided in R.C. § 4507.13, shall operate a motorcycle on a highway, or be a passenger on a motorcycle, unless wearing a protective helmet on the person’s head, and no other person shall be a passenger on a motorcycle operated by such a person unless similarly wearing a protective helmet. The helmet, safety glasses, or other protective eye device shall conform with rules adopted by the Ohio Director of Public Safety. The provisions of this paragraph or a violation thereof shall not be used in the trial of any civil action.
      (2)   (a)   Except as provided in division (C)(3) of this section, no person shall operate a motorcycle with a valid temporary instruction permit and temporary instruction permit identification card issued by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles pursuant to R.C. § 4507.05 unless the person, at the time of such operation, is wearing on the person’s head a protective helmet that conforms with rules adopted by the Ohio Director of Public Safety.
         (b)   No person shall operate a motorcycle with a valid temporary instruction permit and temporary instruction permit identification card issued by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles pursuant to R.C. § 4507.05 in any of the following circumstances:
            1.   At any time when lighted lights are required by R.C. § 4513.03(A)(1);
            2.   While carrying a passenger;
            3.   On any limited access highway or heavily congested roadway.
      (3)   Divisions (C)(1) and (C)(2)(a) of this section do not apply to a person who operates or is a passenger in an autocycle or cab-enclosed motorcycle when the occupant compartment top is in place enclosing the occupants.
   (D)   Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the carrying of a child in a seat or trailer that is designed for carrying children and is firmly attached to the bicycle or electric bicycle.
   (E)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates division (B) or (C)(1) or (C)(2) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates division (B) or (C)(1) or (C)(2) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates division (B) or (C)(1) or (C)(2) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
(R.C. § 4511.53) (Prior Code, § 474.02)
§ 75.05 PROHIBITION AGAINST ATTACHING BICYCLES AND SLEDS TO VEHICLES.
   (A)   (1)   No person riding upon any bicycle, electric bicycle, coaster, roller skates, sled, skateboard, or toy vehicle shall attach the same or self to any vehicle upon a roadway.
      (2)   No operator shall knowingly permit any person riding upon any bicycle, electric bicycle, coaster, roller skates, sled, skateboard, or toy vehicle to attach the same or self to any vehicle while it is moving upon a roadway.
      (3)   This section does not apply to towing a disabled vehicle.
   (B)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
   (C)   If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine established under § 70.99(B).
(R.C. § 4511.54) (Prior Code, § 474.03)
§ 75.06 RIDING BICYCLES; MOTORCYCLES ABREAST.
   (A)   Every person operating a bicycle or electric bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles and exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction.
   (B)   Persons riding bicycles, electric bicycles, or motorcycles upon a roadway shall ride not more than two abreast in a single lane, except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles, electric bicycles, or motorcycles.
   (C)   This section does not require a person operating a bicycle or electric bicycle to ride at the edge of the roadway when it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so. Conditions that may require riding away from the edge of the roadway include when necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, surface hazards, or if it otherwise is unsafe or impracticable to do so, including if the lane is too narrow for the bicycle or electric bicycle and an overtaking vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
   (D)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
   (E)   If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a contributing factor to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine established under § 70.99(B).
(R.C. § 4511.55) (Prior Code, § 474.04)
§ 75.07 EQUIPMENT OF BICYCLES.
   (A)   Every bicycle or electric bicycle when in use at the times specified in R.C. § 4513.03 or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance shall be equipped with the following:
      (1)   A lamp mounted on the front of either the bicycle or electric bicycle or the operator that shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and 300 feet to the sides. A generator-powered lamp that emits light only when the bicycle or electric bicycle is moving may be used to meet this requirement.
      (2)   A red reflector on the rear that shall be visible from all distances from 100 feet to 600 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle;
      (3)   A lamp emitting either flashing or steady red light visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear shall be used in addition to the red reflector. If the red lamp performs as a reflector in that it is visible as specified in division (A)(2) of this section, the red lamp may serve as the reflector and a separate reflector is not required.
   (B)   Additional lamps and reflectors may be used in addition to those required under division (A) of this section, except that red lamps and red reflectors shall not be used on the front of the bicycle or electric bicycle and white lamps and white reflectors shall not be used on the rear of the bicycle or electric bicycle.
   (C)   A bicycle or electric bicycle may be equipped with a device capable of giving an audible signal, except that a bicycle or electric bicycle shall not be equipped with nor shall any person use upon a bicycle or electric bicycle any siren or whistle.
   (D)   Every bicycle and electric bicycle shall be equipped with an adequate brake when used on a street or highway.
   (E)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
(R.C. § 4511.56) (Prior Code, § 474.05)
§ 75.08 RIDING BICYCLES UPON SIDEWALKS.
   A person operating a bicycle shall ride upon the sidewalk rather than the roadway when sidewalks are available, except that no person shall ride a bicycle upon a sidewalk upon or along which signs have been erected by authority of Council or other duly designated local authority prohibiting such bicycle riding, or within a business district. At no time shall a person under the age of 11 years operate a bicycle on a street.
(Prior Code, § 474.06)
§ 75.09 SAFE RIDING REGULATIONS FOR BICYCLES.
   (A)   Whenever a designated usable path for bicycles has been provided adjacent to a street, bicycle riders shall use such path and shall not use the street.
   (B)   Whenever a person is riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk or street, the person shall yield the right- of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before attempting to overtake and pass a pedestrian or another bicycle. This audible signal must be given only by bell or other warning device capable of giving an audible signal and shall be given at such a distance and in such a manner as not to startle the person being overtaken and passed.
   (C)   No person shall ride a bicycle across or through any intersection involving a through street. These intersections are to be crossed by walking the bicycle across or through the intersection.
   (D)   Whenever a person is riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk, the person, before overtaking and passing a blind person carrying a white or metallic cane, shall dismount and overtake or pass on foot.
   (E)   When a bicycle is operated on the street, the operator shall give hand signals before turning, changing lanes or stopping. The signals shall conform with R.C. § 4511.40, or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance.
   (F)   Every rider of a bicycle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian or any vehicle upon any roadway, sidewalk or bicycle path, or endangering the life, limb or property of any person while in the lawful use of the streets, sidewalks or any other private or public property.
   (G)   No person shall operate a bicycle at a speed greater than is reasonable and proper under the conditions then existing.
   (H)   The operator of a bicycle emerging from or turning into an alley, driveway or building shall, upon approaching a sidewalk or the sidewalk area extending across any alley, driveway or building, yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians approaching on the sidewalk area. Upon entering the street, the operator shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the street.
   (I)   No person shall engage in trick riding or operate a bicycle without both hands upon the handle grips except when necessary to give the hand signals required herein.
(Prior Code, § 474.07)
§ 75.10 PARKING; LOCKS.
   (A)   No person shall park a bicycle upon a sidewalk in such a manner as to interfere with pedestrian traffic or damage the property of another.
   (B)   No person shall park a bicycle upon a roadway in such a manner as to interfere with vehicular traffic.
   (C)   No bicycle shall remain unlocked when parked upon any public way or place.
(Prior Code, § 474.08)
§ 75.11 PARENT’S RESPONSIBILITY.
   No parent of any child or guardian of any ward shall authorize or knowingly permit any such child or ward to violate any of the provisions of this subchapter.
(Prior Code, § 474.09)
§ 75.12 SUSPENSION OF RIDING PRIVILEGES; IMPOUNDING OF BICYCLES.
   In addition to the penalties provided in § 70.99, a court may prohibit any person who violates or fails to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter relating to bicycles from riding a bicycle for a period not to exceed three months. In addition, any person violating or failing to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter relating to bicycles may be punished by having his or her bicycle impounded for a period not exceeding 30 days.
(Prior Code, § 474.10)
SNOWMOBILES, OFF-HIGHWAY MOTORCYCLES, AND ALL-PURPOSE VEHICLES
§ 75.25 DEFINITIONS.
   For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
   ALL-PURPOSE VEHICLE. Any self-propelled vehicle designed primarily for cross-country travel on land and water, or on more than one type of terrain, and steered by wheels or caterpillar treads, or any combination thereof, including vehicles that operate on a cushion of air, vehicles commonly known as all-terrain vehicles, all season vehicles, mini-bikes and trail bikes. The term does not include a utility vehicle as defined in R.C. § 4501.01 or any vehicle principally used in playing golf, any motor vehicle or aircraft required to be registered under R.C. Chapter 4503 or R.C. Chapter 4561, and any vehicle excepted from definition as a motor vehicle by R.C. § 4501.01(B).
   DEALER. Any person or firm engaged in the business of manufacturing or selling snowmobiles, off-highway motorcycles, or all-purpose vehicles at wholesale or retail, or who rents, leases or otherwise furnishes snowmobiles, off-highway motorcycles, or all-purpose vehicles for hire.
   ELECTRONIC. Has the same meaning as in R.C. § 4501.01.
   ELECTRONIC DEALER. A dealer whom the Registrar of Motor Vehicles designates under R.C. § 4519.511.
   ELECTRONIC RECORD. Has the same meaning as in R.C. § 4501.01.
   HIGHWAY. Has the same meaning as in R.C. § 4511.01.
   INTERSTATE HIGHWAY. Any part of the interstate system of highways as defined in subsection (e), 90 Stat. 431 (1976), 23 U.S.C. § 103, as amended.
   LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAY OR FREEWAY. Have the same meanings as in R.C. § 5511.02.
   MINI-TRUCK. 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.
   OFF-HIGHWAY MOTORCYCLE. Every motorcycle, as defined in R.C. § 4511.01, that is designed to be operated primarily on lands other than a street or highway.
   OPERATOR. Any person who operates or is in actual physical control of a snowmobile, off- highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle.
   OWNER. Any person or firm, other than a lienholder or dealer, having title to a snowmobile, off- highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle, or other right to the possession thereof.
   PROOF OF FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. Has the same meaning as in R.C. § 4509.01.
   SNOWMOBILE. Any self-propelled vehicle designed primarily for use on snow or ice, and steered by skis, runners or caterpillar treads.
   STATE HIGHWAY and STATE ROUTE. Have the same meanings as in R.C. § 4511.01.
   STREET. Has the same meaning as in R.C. § 4511.01.
(R.C. § 4519.01) (Prior Code, § 476.01)
§ 75.26 EQUIPMENT.
   (A)   In addition to any rules or regulations promulgated by the Ohio Director of Public Safety pursuant to R.C. § 4519.20 and R.C. Chapter 119, equipment of snowmobiles, off-highway motorcycles, and all-purpose vehicles shall include but not necessarily be limited to requirements for the following items of equipment:
      (1)   At least one headlight having a minimum candlepower of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and objects at a distance of at least 100 feet ahead under normal atmospheric conditions during hours of darkness;
      (2)   At least one red tail light having a minimum candlepower of sufficient intensity to be plainly visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear under normal atmospheric conditions during hours of darkness;
      (3)   Every snowmobile, while traveling on packed snow, shall be capable of carrying a driver who weighs 175 pounds or more, and, while carrying such driver, be capable of stopping in no more than 40 feet from an initial steady speed of 20 miles per hour, or locking its traction belt; and
      (4)   A muffler system capable of precluding the emission of excessive smoke or exhaust fumes, and of limiting the engine noise of vehicles. On snowmobiles manufactured after January 1, 1973, such requirement shall include sound dampening equipment such that noise does not exceed 82 decibels on the “A” scale at 50 feet as measured according to SAE J192 (September 1970).
   (B)   No person shall operate any snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle in violation of this section, except that equipment specified in division (A)(1) and (A)(2) of this section shall not be required on snowmobiles, off-highway motorcycles, or all-purpose vehicles operated during the daylight hours.
(R.C. § 4519.20(A), (B))
   (C)   No person shall sell, offer for sale, lease, rent or otherwise furnish for hire in this municipality any new snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle that fails to comply with any rule adopted by the Ohio Director of Public Safety under R.C. § 4519.20 after the effective date of the rule.
(R.C. § 4519.22(A))
   (D)   (1)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates division (B) of this section shall be fined not more than $50. If the offender within the preceding year previously has committed a violation of division (B) of this section or of R.C. § 4519.20(B), whoever violates division (B) of this section shall be fined not less than $15 nor more than $100, imprisoned not more than three days, or both.
(R.C. § 4519.20(C))
      (2)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates division (C) of this section shall be fined not more than $50. If the offender within the preceding year previously has committed a violation of division (C) of this section or of R.C. § 4519.22(A), whoever violates this section shall be fined not less than $15 nor more than $100, imprisoned not more than three days, or both.
(R.C. § 4519.22(B))
(Prior Code, § 476.02)
§ 75.27 CODE APPLICATION; PROHIBITED OPERATION.
   (A)   The applicable provisions of this traffic code apply to the operation of snowmobiles, off-highway motorcycles, and all-purpose vehicles, except that no person shall operate a snowmobile, off- highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle as follows:
      (1)   On any state highway, including a limited access highway or freeway or the right-of-way thereof, except for emergency travel during such time and in such manner as the Ohio Director of Public Safety designates or except as authorized by R.C. § 4519.41(F);
      (2)   On any private property, or in any nursery or planting area, without the permission of the owner or other person having the right to possession of the property;
      (3)   On any land or waters controlled by the state, except at those locations where a sign has been posted permitting such operation;
      (4)   On the tracks or right-of-way of any operating railroad;
      (5)   While transporting any firearm, bow or other implement for hunting that is not unloaded and securely encased;
      (6)   For the purpose of chasing, pursuing, capturing or killing any animal or wild fowl; or
      (7)   During the time from sunset to sunrise, unless displaying lighted lights as required by R.C. § 4519.20 or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance.
   (B)   Whoever violates this section shall be fined not less than $50 nor more than $500, imprisoned not less than 3 nor more than 30 days, or both.
(R.C. § 4519.40) (Prior Code, § 476.03)
§ 75.28 PERMITTED OPERATION.
   Snowmobiles, off-highway motorcycles, and all-purpose vehicles may be operated as follows:
   (A)   To make a crossing of a highway, other than a highway as designated in R.C. § 4519.40(A)(1) or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance, whenever the crossing can be made in safety and will not interfere with the movement of vehicular traffic approaching from any direction on the highway, and provided that the operator yields the right-of-way to any approaching traffic that presents an immediate hazard;
   (B)   On highways in the county or township road systems whenever the local authority having jurisdiction over such highways so permits;
   (C)   Off and alongside street or highway for limited distances from the point of unloading from a conveyance to the point at which the snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle is intended and authorized to be operated;
   (D)   On the berm or shoulder of a highway, other than a highway as designated in R.C. § 4519.40(A)(1) or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance, when the terrain permits such operation to be undertaken safely and without the necessity of entering any traffic lane;
   (E)   On the berm or shoulder or a county or township road, while traveling from one area of operation of the snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle to another such area.
   (F)   For snowmobiles without metal studded tracks and all-purpose vehicles, on state highways located on an island in Lake Erie, including limited access highways and freeways, between the first day of November and the thirtieth day of April, provided that all of the following conditions apply:
      (1)   The operator has a valid driver’s license as required under R.C. § 4519.44.
      (2)   The snowmobile or all-purpose vehicle is in compliance with rules governing safety equipment adopted under R.C. § 4519.20.
      (3)   The owner of the snowmobile or all-purpose vehicle maintains proof of financial responsibility for both on-road and off-road use of the snowmobile or all-purpose vehicle.
      (4)   The operator obeys all traffic rules and regulations.
(R.C. § 4519.41) (Prior Code, § 476.04)
§ 75.29 LICENSING REQUIREMENTS OF OPERATOR.
   (A)   No person who does not hold a valid, current motor vehicle driver’s or commercial driver’s license, motorcycle operator’s endorsement or probationary license, issued under R.C. Chapter 4506 or R.C. Chapter 4507 or a valid, current driver’s license issued by another jurisdiction, shall operate a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle on any street or highway in this municipality, on any portion of the right-of-way thereof, or on any public land or waters.
   (B)   No person who is less than 16 years of age shall operate a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle on any land or waters other than private property or waters owned by or leased to the person’s parent or guardian, unless accompanied by another person who is 18 years of age or older, and who holds a license as provided in division (A) of this section, except that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources may permit such operation on state controlled land under its jurisdiction when such person is less than 16 years of age and is accompanied by a parent or guardian who is a licensed driver 18 years of age or older.
   (C)   Whoever violates this section shall be fined not less than $50 nor more than $500, imprisoned not less than three nor more than 30 days, or both.
(R.C. § 4519.44) (Prior Code, § 476.05)
§ 75.30 MAINTENANCE OF VEHICLES FOR HIRE.
   (A)   Any dealer who rents, leases or otherwise furnishes a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle for hire shall maintain the vehicle in safe operating condition. No dealer, or agent or employee of a dealer, shall rent, lease or otherwise furnish a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle for hire to any person who does not hold a license as required by R.C. § 4519.44(A) or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance, or to any person whom the dealer or an agent or employee of the dealer has reasonable cause to believe is incompetent to operate the vehicle in a safe and lawful manner.
   (B)   Whoever violates this section shall be fined not less than $100 nor more than $500.
(R.C. § 4519.45)
§ 75.31 ACCIDENT REPORTS.
   (A)   The operator of a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle involved in any accident resulting in bodily injury to or death of any person or damage to the property of any person in excess of $100 shall report the accident within 48 hours to the Chief of Police, and within 30 days shall forward a written report of the accident to the Ohio Registrar of Motor Vehicles on a form prescribed by the Registrar. If the operator is physically incapable of making the reports and there is another participant in the accident not so incapacitated, the participant shall make the reports. In the event there is no other participant, and the operator is other than the owner, the owner, within the prescribed periods of time, shall make the reports.
   (B)   Any law enforcement officer or other person authorized by R.C. §§ 4519.42 and 4519.43 who investigates or receives information of an accident involving a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle shall forward to the Registrar a written report of the accident within 48 hours.
(R.C. § 4519.46)
(Prior Code, § 476.06)
§ 75.32 IMPOUNDING OF VEHICLE.
   (A)   Whenever a person is found guilty of operating a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all- purpose vehicle in violation of any rule authorized to be adopted under R.C. § 4519.21 or 4519.42, the trial judge of any court of record, in addition to or independent of any other penalties provided by law, may impound for not less than 60 days the certificate of registration and license plate, if applicable, of that snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle. The court shall send the impounded certificate of registration and license plate, if applicable, to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles, who shall retain the certificate of registration and license plate, if applicable, until the expiration of the period of impoundment.
   (B)   If a court impounds the certificate of registration and license plate of an all-purpose vehicle pursuant to R.C. § 2911.21, the court shall send the impounded certificate of registration and license plate to the Registrar, who shall retain them until the expiration of the period of impoundment.
(R.C. § 4519.47)
§ 75.33 LOCAL CONTROL WITHIN POLICE POWER.
   Nothing contained in this subchapter shall prevent the municipality from regulating the operation of snowmobiles, off-highway motorcycle, and all-purpose vehicles on streets and highways and other public property under municipal jurisdiction, and within the reasonable exercise of the police power, except that no registration or licensing of any snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle required to be registered or titled under R.C. Chapter 4519 shall be required.
(R.C. § 4519.48) (Prior Code, § 476.07)
§ 75.34 REGISTRATION OF VEHICLES.
   (A)   (1)   Except as provided in division (B), (C) and (D) of this section, no person shall operate any snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle within this municipality unless the snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle is registered and numbered in accordance with R.C. §§ 4519.03 and 4519.04.
      (2)   Except as provided in R.C. § 4511.215 or a substantially equivalent municipal ordinance, no registration is required for a mini-truck that is operated within this state. A mini-truck may be operated only in accordance with R.C. § 4511.215 and R.C. § 4519.401, or any substantially equivalent municipal ordinance.
   (B)   (1)   No registration is required for a snowmobile or off-highway motorcycle that is operated exclusively upon lands owned by the owner of the snowmobile or off-highway motorcycle, or on lands to which the owner of the snowmobile or off-highway motorcycle has a contractual right.
      (2)   No registration is required for an all-purpose vehicle that is used primarily for agricultural purposes when the owner qualifies for the current agricultural use valuation tax credit, unless it is to be used on any public land, trail, or right-of-way.
      (3)   Any all-purpose vehicle exempted from registration under division (B)(2) of this section and operated for agricultural purposes may use public roads and rights-of-way when traveling from one farm field to another, when such use does not violate R.C. § 4519.41.
      (4)   No registration is required for a snowmobile or all-purpose vehicle that is operated on a state highway as authorized by R.C. § 4519.41(F).
   (C)   No registration is required for a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle owned and used in this state by a resident of another state whenever that state has in effect a registration law similar to R.C. Chapter 4519 and the snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle is properly registered under that state’s law. Any snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle owned and used in this state by a resident of a state not having a registration law similar to R.C. Chapter 4519 shall comply with R.C. § 4519.09.
   (D)   No registration is required for a snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle owned and used in this municipality by the United States, another state or a political subdivision thereof, but the snowmobile, off-highway motorcycle, or all-purpose vehicle shall display the name of the owner thereon.
   (E)   The owner or operator of any all-purpose vehicle operated or used upon the waters in this municipality shall comply with R.C. Chapter 1547 and R.C. Chapter 1548 relative to the operation of watercraft.
   (F)   Whoever violates division (A) of this section shall be fined not less than $50 nor more than $100.
(R.C. § 4519.02) (Prior Code, § 476.08)
Statutory reference:
   Destruction or disposal of vehicle; transfer of ownership; change of address; loss of certificate, see R.C. § 4519.05
   Registration of emergency vehicles, see R.C. § 4519.08
   Registration procedure, see R.C. § 4519.03
   Temporary license placards and fees, see R.C. § 4519.10
   Temporary operating permit for certain nonresidents, see R.C. § 4519.09
§ 75.35 CERTIFICATE OF TITLE; PROHIBITIONS.
   (A)   No person shall do any of the following:
      (1)   Operate in this state an off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle without having a certificate of title for the off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle if such a certificate is required by R.C. Chapter 4519 to be issued for the off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle, or, if a physical certificate of title has not been issued for it, operate an off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle knowing that the ownership information related to the motorcycle or vehicle has not been entered into the automated title processing system by a Clerk of a Court of Common Pleas.
      (2)   Operate in this municipality an off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle is a certificate of title to the off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle has been issued and then has been canceled.
      (3)   Fail to surrender any certificate of title upon cancellation of it by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles and notice of the cancellation as prescribed in R.C. Chapter 4519.
      (4)   Fail to surrender the certificate of title to a Clerk of a Court of Common Pleas as provided in R.C. Chapter 4519, in case of the destruction or dismantling of, or change in, the off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle described in the certificate of title.
      (5)   Violate any provision of R.C. §§ 4519.51 through 4519.70 for which no penalty is otherwise provided or any lawful rules adopted pursuant to those sections.
      (6)   Operate in this state an off-highway motorcycle or all-purpose vehicle knowing that the certificate of title to or ownership of the motorcycle or vehicle as otherwise reflected in the automated title processing system has been canceled.
   (B)   Whoever violates this section shall be fined not more than $200, imprisoned not more than 90 days, or both.
(R.C. § 4519.66) (Prior Code, § 476.09)
Statutory reference:
   Certificate of title: rules and procedures, see R.C. §§ 4519.51 et seq.
   Stolen vehicles and restrictions on sale or transfer, felony provisions, see R.C. § 4519.67
GOLF CARTS
§ 75.50 DEFINITION.
   For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
   GOLF CART. A motor vehicle as that term is defined under R.C. § 4501.01(b).
(Prior Code, § 478.01) (Ord. 788, passed 9-9-2013)
§ 75.51 EQUIPMENT.
   A golf cart must be equipped as outlined in R.C. 4513.
(Prior Code, § 478.02) (Ord. 788, passed 9-9-2013)
§ 75.52 DRIVER RESTRICTION.
   The driver must have a valid driver’s license.
(R.C. 4507.02(A)(1) - 4510.12(A)(1)) (Prior Code, § 478.03) (Ord. 788, passed 9-9-2013)
§ 75.53 INSURANCE.
   The owner must have proof of insurance and carry such proof in his or her possession or in the cart.
(R.C. § 4509.101(A)(1)) (Prior Code, § 478.04) (Ord. 788, passed 9-9-2013)
§ 75.54 CART INSPECTION.
   No person shall operate a golf cart within the village limits unless the golf cart has had an inspection by the Police Department and is in compliance with all pertinent sections of this chapter.
(Prior Code, § 478.05) (Ord. 788, passed 9-9-2013)
§ 75.55 TITLE AND LICENSE PLATES.
   (A)   Once inspected the certificate of inspection shall be presented to the County Title Department for issuance of a title so as to obtain license plates from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
   (B)   Once licensed, golf carts may only be operated on public streets, alleys and roadways posted at 35 miles per hour or lower within the incorporated limits of the village.
   (C)   As with any motor vehicle, safety must be observed at all times during operation.
(Prior Code, § 478.06) (Ord. 788, passed 9-9-2013)
§ 75.99 PENALTY.
   Any person convicted or pleading guilty to a violation of this chapter shall be held to the penalties as set forth in R.C. § 4511.99.
(Prior Code, § 478.99) (Ord. 788, passed 9-9-2013)