North Augusta council gives first reading to golf‑cart ordinance amid questions over state preemption

North Augusta — The City Council on Dec. 1 gave first‑reading approval to a public‑safety ordinance (2025‑30) that updates rules for golf‑cart operation in the city, including provisions for nighttime use.

City staff explained the draft ordinance mirrors the version discussed at a prior study session and contains provisions that the city cannot alter because they are required by South Carolina law. “These are all things that are required by South Carolina law,” city staff said, noting that the ordinance also lists elements the council can adopt locally, such as hours of operation and signage.

Councilmembers asked whether the city may require additional equipment — for example, turn signals or new seat‑belt mandates for minors. City staff and the mayor noted uncertainty over whether state law preempts such equipment requirements and said any additional mandates would likely require an amendment to the ordinance if state law allows it. “I would not feel comfortable ... having our law‑enforcement people charge somebody for not having turn signals because I don't think we have the right to require that,” a staff speaker said.

A citizen speaker during public comment urged the council to use hours restrictions if necessary, saying, “no matter what we do ... we are gonna have golf carts on our street,” and warning that council authority to limit use is constrained by state statute.

The mayor asked for a vote after limited discussion; the council approved the ordinance on first reading by unanimous voice vote. The measure will return for a subsequent reading before final adoption.