Gulf County tightens golf cart, UTV and low-speed-vehicle rules, lowers stop-sign buffer to 30 feet

Gulf County commissioners adopted amendments to the county's golf cart ordinance on May 26 that expand the rules to cover utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and low-speed vehicles, authorize immobilization or removal of improperly parked carts, and mirror state law by setting a 30-foot buffer from stop signs.

Mr. Novak said the updated ordinance defines low-speed vehicles under Florida Statute 320 and UTVs under Florida Statute 316, details operational and safety requirements, and provides enforcement and penalty authority including immobilization and removal when carts obstruct visibility or public ways.

Commissioners discussed enforcement details with the sheriff, who said deputies need consistent signage placed 30 feet back from a stop sign to make citation and enforcement practicable. Commissioners and staff also discussed technology options such as geofencing on rental carts and a locking-release process tied to sheriff's office response.

Public commenters praised enforcement efforts over a recent busy weekend, requested limited parking accommodations at veterans park right-of-way and asked for an accessible parking sticker for golf carts near Beacon Hill's ramp. Cindy Hart requested a handicapped golf-cart parking area to ease beach access for residents with mobility issues.

The board emphasized education as a primary goal, noting that fewer citations over time can indicate success. After public comment, the board voted unanimously to adopt the amended ordinance and directed staff to finalize edits and implement the changes, including signage updates and coordination with municipal counterparts.

Next steps: staff will update signage to reflect the 30-foot buffer, establish towing/immobilization procedures and begin enforcement and public education this summer.