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Highland council adopts golf-cart rules, sets age limit and street restrictions
Summary
After hours of public comment and council debate, Highland City Council approved an ordinance allowing golf carts on some city streets with limits: drivers must be at least 18, carts are restricted from streets over the posted 25 mph limit and are prohibited after dark.
Highland City Council on Tuesday approved a new ordinance permitting golf carts on city streets under specific conditions, saying the change balances resident interest with public-safety limits.
The ordinance requires operators to be at least 18 years old, limits use to streets posted at 25 miles per hour or slower and bans operation after dark. It also makes alcohol-related violations involving golf carts misdemeanors and allows the city to cite vehicle owners who knowingly allow minors to operate their carts.
Council members and staff said the rules are intended to allow neighborhood mobility while curbing the most dangerous uses. “If they're taking kids on laps or driving on sidewalks, that's not acceptable,” Council member Kim said during the discussion.
Rob Patterson, the city attorney, told the council state law allows municipalities to permit golf carts on city streets but not on state highways; the ordinance therefore excludes Alpine Highway, North County Boulevard and similar state routes. The draft ordinance is modeled on several other Utah cities’ rules but includes Highland-specific limits the council discussed.
Supporters urged the council to allow the vehicles. Aaron Gleif, a resident who spoke during public comment, said golf carts help neighbors connect. “We have expanded our connections in this community unlike any other place we've ever lived before,” he said.
Opponents raised safety concerns. Elizabeth Rice, a 26-year Highland resident, described a recent neighborhood incident involving a youth and a motor vehicle and warned about risks around schools and parks.
Chief Williams of the Highland public safety department advised the council on enforceability, noting officers can cite visible violations such as underage drivers or excess passengers but that many rules are harder to prove in the field. He and other staff recommended keeping the first ordinance modest and adjusting rules later if experience warrants.
The council voted 4–1 to adopt the ordinance. Council member Scott voted against the measure, saying he remained worried about safety on roads where motorists routinely exceed speed limits. The city will publish implementing details and signage guidance for residents.
The ordinance takes effect following the mayor’s signature and standard posting procedures; staff will return with an implementation plan and enforcement guidance.
