Bluffton's updated rules for golf carts and other specialty vehicles went into effect at the start of the new year, the BCTV news headlines reported. The town's changes cover operation, safety equipment and where these vehicles may be driven within town limits.

The update requires that drivers be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver's license. Safety requirements listed in the announcement include wearing a seat belt and having required equipment such as a valid South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles registration and a town permit decal, liability insurance, mirrors and lights for nighttime operation. Travel prohibitions cited in the notice include roundabouts and traffic circles, four-lane roads, pedestrian pathways and sidewalks, and any road posted above 35 miles per hour unless a designated lane is provided.

The law applies to golf carts, low-speed vehicles, utility vehicles and other specialty vehicles when operated on roads within the town of Bluffton. The town published the full guidance and administrative details on its website; residents seeking specifics about permitting, fees or enforcement were directed to townofbluffton.sc.gov.

More information: Town of Bluffton press materials and the town website contain the ordinance text and instructions for obtaining the required decal and registration.