Letcher County fiscal court gives first reading to ordinance allowing street-legal side-by-sides

The Letcher County Fiscal Court completed a first reading of an ordinance to opt into Kentucky’s law allowing certain specially equipped off‑road vehicles — commonly known as side-by-sides or utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) — to be operated on county roads when registered, inspected and insured.

Judge Terry Adams and multiple court members moved and seconded the first reading, which passed on a recorded vote. County staff said the state will publish model language but that local governments must adopt a local ordinance and read it twice for local enforcement.

The state law creates an option for vehicle owners to register and tag eligible side-by-sides for limited on-road travel; the county will not force registrations but will provide the opt-in that allows owners who meet state requirements (inspection, insurance and any tagging fees) to operate on designated roads. County officials said inspection fees and related tagging amounts are routed to the sheriff’s office, and that annual fees are modest under the state program.

Commissioners and public commenters expressed safety concerns about underage or unlicensed drivers operating on roads. Court staff said the state law requires a valid driver’s license for on‑road operation and that the ordinance will allow the county to designate which county roads are eligible for street-legal travel and to set local controls consistent with state law.

Court members asked staff to place the second reading on the next agenda so any local ordinances will align with the state implementation timeline.