Grant County adopts ordinance to license special‑purpose off‑road vehicles for use on county roads

Grant County Fiscal Court approved a second reading and adoption of an ordinance on Aug. 5 that brings certain special‑purpose off‑road vehicles (sometimes called side‑by‑sides or SLSPVs) onto county roads in unincorporated areas after inspection and licensing.

Why it matters: The ordinance licenses qualifying off‑road vehicles for limited on‑road use, subjects them to inspections and equipment requirements, and imposes mileage restrictions and ad valorem tax collection that will apply to county taxing districts. Court members said the change aligns local rules with KRS 186 provisions referenced during discussion and is intended to make on‑road use safer by requiring inspections, registration and insurance.

Key provisions and implementation details discussed: Speakers and court members explained the practical effects and limits of the new ordinance: - Inspection and equipment: Vehicles must meet inspection checklists that include safety items such as roll cages, mirrors and appropriate restraints where required; some traditional ATVs lacking equipment would not pass inspection and therefore would not be licensed for road use. Sheriff Dennis Weitz said the sheriff’s office will perform inspections and charge $25 for in‑office inspections and an additional $30 for on‑site visits, and that certified dealerships may perform inspections once systems are in place. - Mileage and roadway restrictions: The court discussed a 20‑mile radius/mileage limit for on‑road operation and noted the vehicles will be treated similarly to motor vehicles for speeding and licensing enforcement, including driver's‑license points for violations. - Taxing and titling effects: The county will collect ad valorem taxes on licensed vehicles; the county clerk, Colton Simpson, confirmed that liens on off‑road titles will transfer to the new on‑road title type and that VINs do not change during the conversion process.

Court action and statements: Magistrate Humphrey moved to approve the ordinance; Magistrate Riley seconded the motion. After discussion, the court voted “aye” and the judge said the ordinance will go into effect for unincorporated areas only; it does not apply inside municipal boundaries unless those cities pass equivalent ordinances.

Enforcement and next steps: The sheriff’s office said it can begin inspections and that dealerships could be approved later to perform inspections in‑house through state systems once those systems are ready. County staff will publish the full ordinance text in the judge/executive’s office and notify the public of compliance requirements.