Golf Cart Ordinance Takes Effect Aug. 2

A new city ordinance going into effect on August 2 provides the opportunity for golf cart owners to secure a permit allowing a golf cart to be legally driven on streets within the city of Freeman. State law currently prohibits golf carts from being driven on roadways without a permit.. Even carts with permits, however, may not be operated on state or county roads.

The cost of an annual permit - valid from January through December of the calendar year - is $20. Permits are issued at City Hall upon the following conditions: 1) The driver must hold a driver license valid according to state statute. 2) The golf cart must be insured for liability. 3) The $20 fee is payable to the City of Freeman. 4) The cart must be equipped with headlights and taillights if operating from dusk until dawn.

A decal permit must be affixed to the rear fender or rear bumper area where it is fully visible when the cart is in operation. Failure to abide by the conditions of the permit may result in the revocation of the permit by the City of Freeman.

City of Freeman permits provide authorization for driving upon city streets only. The permit does not allow for golf carts to be driven on any state or county highway except to make a direct crossing.

The following criteria are also in place:

An issued permit may not be transferred to any other golf cart.

The operator of the cart must comply with all city, county and state traffic rules and regulations that apply to motor vehicles.

Golf carts may not be driven on sidewalks.

The cart may only be driven on city streets during daylight hours, unless the cart has at least one operating taillight and one operating headlight.

While the golf cart is in motion, the operator and occupants must remain seated at all times and ride only in permanent/regular golf cart seats.

It is unlawful for more than two people to occupy the front seat while the golf cart is in motion.