Lake County approves first reading of updated model traffic code after lengthy debate over UTV rules

Lake County commissioners voted to approve the first reading of Ordinance 2026-02 on April 7, adopting the 2024 Model Traffic Code (MTC) with local amendments but removing a separate subsection that would have tightened rules on off-highway vehicles (OVs/UTVs).

The ordinance update replaces a 2010 county code and was presented as an effort to align local traffic regulations with current state statute and to clarify enforcement roles. "The model traffic code basically tracks state statute and allows some of your revenues when traffic citations are issued to come into the county versus going to the state," the ordinance drafter said, explaining the rationale for the update.

Why it matters: the MTC modernizes a long-outdated local code and clarifies operational authority, including delegating certain road-closure, towing and staging powers to the public works director while retaining criminal enforcement with the sheriff's office. Commissioners said that clarity could improve winter road management, towing for obstructive parking and temporary closures for special events.

What sparked debate: a contested subsection limiting OV use on county roads drew prolonged discussion. Under the proposed language, use of OVs on county roads would have been limited to travel ‘‘reasonably necessary’’ to access lawful off‑highway routes and would have explicitly prohibited travel to parks, schools, residences, retail and general circulation. Supporters argued the language would curb reckless use and preserve safety and rural character; opponents warned it would effectively ban errands and mobility options for residents who rely on OVs and that enforcement capacity is limited.

Sheriff Speckman urged caution but said the draft "does give us some clarity and the enforcement actions necessary." Other commissioners raised equity concerns for residents who lack conventional vehicles and practical questions about gray areas — for example, whether a rider stopping for gas en route to a trail would be allowed. Staff and the sheriff also discussed a potential local registration program to ensure insurance and equipment standards, but noted administrative capacity limits.

Next steps and outcome: commissioners agreed to remove the OV subsection from the ordinance and to hold a work session and further stakeholder outreach on that topic before any final rulemaking. With that amendment, the board approved first reading of Ordinance 2026-02; a second reading and final vote will follow public notice and any additional edits.

The ordinance as amended preserves enforcement authority for traffic offenses with the sheriff and codifies county powers for towing, temporary road closures and parking management with the public works director. Commissioners said they wanted clearer lines for enforcement while avoiding unintended consequences that could harm residents’ mobility.

Provenance: The topic was introduced at the first reading of Ordinance 2026-02 (topic intro: SEG 362; topic finish: SEG 1876).