LaSalle residents urge ordinance to allow side-by-side UTVs and modified golf carts; council asks attorney to draft proposal

A group of residents and vehicle owners told the LaSalle City Council that they want a local ordinance allowing side-by-side utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), modified golf carts and other four-wheel slow-moving vehicles to operate on specified city streets, provided they meet equipment, insurance and permitting requirements.

Mr. Joy, who addressed the council by motion, said many nearby communities already permit such vehicles and asked that LaSalle adopt a clear regulatory framework so drivers “know the rules and how ... they’re permitted.” He described community rides and fundraisers and said vehicles would be insured and inspected under the proposed plan.

The council’s police chief warned that the vehicles “generally weren’t designed to be on a public roadway” and urged strict safety standards and accountability measures, including administrative adjudication for ordinance violations, driver-license requirements, DUI exposure and potential impoundment for serious offenses. Councilors and presenters discussed equipment checklists (headlights, turn signals, mirrors, seat belts and reflectors), suggested age limits (presenters recommended 18) and considered restrictions to keep vehicles off sidewalks, parks and cemeteries.

Members reviewed examples from neighboring municipalities and discussed fees and enforcement approaches. Several councilors said they supported moving forward with a draft rather than taking immediate final action; the council asked the city attorney to prepare a proposed ordinance and directed staff to refine inspection and permitting details for future council review.

The council did not vote on a final ordinance at the meeting; the next step is a staff- and attorney-drafted ordinance for council consideration and public notice.