MATTOON, Ill. (WAND) — On Tuesday, Mattoon City Council passed an ordinance to allow golf carts to be driven on city roads.
The ordinance passed unanimously and will go into effect August 1.Â
Adam Fifield, General Manager at Pilson Powersports in Mattoon, said although it'll be a big change for the community, it will open up new opportunities. "This is going to be something new to the community. Other communities that put in place, they love it. It's some extra revenue for the city -- and like I said -- it's something fun, it's safe, it's good for the environment."
Regulations in the ordinance require golf carts to drive in the same direction as traffic. It will also be illegal to drive on sidewalks, bike paths and multi-use paths. Drivers must have a valid driver's license and be at least 18 years old. Children who need to use a car seat or a booster seat are not permitted to ride in a golf cart.
Golf carts must also have the following equipment working at all times:
- Brakes
- Steering apparatus
- Tires
- Tail lamp that emits red light visible from at least 100 feet from the rear of golf cart
- Brake lights on rear
- Turn signals on front and rear
- Seat belts
- Rear view mirror
- Red reflectorized warning device on front and rear
- Triangular slow-moving emblem attached to the rear
- Headlight that emits white light visible from at least 500 feet to the front of golf cart
For more information on the ordinance, check the council packet from the June 17 meeting.
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