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Fenton aldermen pause move to broaden street use of ATVs, UTVs; ask staff for clearer rules on e-bikes and scooters
Summary
Fenton aldermen debated whether to extend the city's golf-cart ordinance to other recreational vehicles — including ATVs, UTVs and low-speed vehicles — and asked staff to clarify park rules and e-bike classes before any code changes.
Fenton aldermen debated on Sept. 4 whether to expand the city’s golf-cart ordinance to cover a range of “alternative vehicles,” but took no vote and directed staff to return with clearer classifications and enforcement options. The discussion covered on-street use of ATVs and UTVs, enforcement limits for police, and whether motorized or electric-assist bicycles should be allowed on park paths and sidewalks.
Aldermen said they wanted to avoid a patchwork of rules that would confuse officers and residents, and flagged safety issues, enforcement limits and existing park language that prohibits motorized vehicles. Mayor Joe Moran and public safety officials said state statute defines vehicle types differently, which limits what the city can prohibit on streets.
The issue matters because some residents own side-by-sides and other off-road machines, and others are using electric bicycles and scooters on narrow park paths. Several aldermen said they support keeping parks motor-free and retaining the golf-cart rules for streets unless clearer distinctions can be adopted. Police indicated pursuit policies restrict chasing vehicles for traffic violations, complicating enforcement when entrants on off-road vehicles can depart on foot or off pavement.
Alderman Susan Mazurang and others urged the board to separate three topics: (1) golf-cart–style low-speed vehicles for limited street use, (2) higher‑performance ATVs/UTVs that are built for off‑road use, and (3) motorized bicycles and scooters on park paths. Alderman Brian Wissbrock and others said classifying electric bicycles (class 1, 2 and 3) would help determine which are permitted where; several aldermen referenced class‑1 e-bikes — which provide motor assist only while pedaling and cut off at 20 mph — as a possible accommodation for seniors and riders with limited mobility.
Public-safety staff and the police captain described crash risks specific to ATVs and knobby‑tire vehicles on pavement, and noted manufacturers often advise against regular pavement operation. Police also warned that some off‑road machines can exceed 50 mph and are modified by owners, making a simple equipment-based permit difficult to apply consistently.
The board asked staff to prepare a proposal that distinguishes vehicle classes, reviews state statute language that allows some low‑speed vehicles on streets, and proposes a park-code amendment to clarify whether and which electric bicycles or scooters may be used on multiuse paths. No ordinance or permit program was approved; aldermen generally agreed to take more time to research definitions, enforcement options, and age/license requirements before voting.
