Russell County to draft ordinance allowing side‑by‑side vehicles on all county roads; insurance and exemptions discussed
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Summary
The fiscal court directed staff to draft an ordinance allowing side‑by‑side (UTV) vehicles on all county roads, discussed insurance requirements and agreed that agricultural exemptions would apply.
Russell County magistrates on July 14 directed county staff to draft an ordinance to allow side‑by‑side off‑highway vehicles (UTVs) on all county roads. The court’s direction was to draft for “all roads”; magistrates discussed whether to impose speed limits, insurance requirements and exemptions for agricultural uses.
County staff explained that the state law and implementing rules require certain items—insurance and registration—if the county authorizes operation on county roads. Magistrates discussed options including allowing operation on all county roads or restricting to particular roads or speed limits. One magistrate moved to allow side‑by‑sides on all roads; that motion passed by voice vote. County staff said they would prepare a draft ordinance for first reading that would include the statutory insurance requirements and any local tailoring the court directs.
The court also discussed exemptions for farm and agricultural vehicles; staff stated agriculture is exempt under the statute discussed. Officials emphasized that vehicle inspection and tax obligations would apply to registered units.
Why it matters: allowing UTVs on county roads changes local traffic rules, raises questions about insurance, registration and enforcement, and can affect tourism, recreation and farm operations.
Next steps: staff will draft an ordinance for the court’s first reading reflecting the court’s direction to permit side‑by‑sides on all county roads and to include insurance and registration language consistent with state requirements.
