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Georgetown holds first reading on ordinance to allow UTVs and low-speed vehicles on village streets
Summary
Council held a first reading and extended discussion of a draft ordinance to permit low-speed/utility vehicles (UTVs) on village roadways. Key issues included inspection requirements, speed limits (draft allows up to 35 mph on eligible streets), title/plate requirements and enforcement classification.
The Village of Georgetown council held a first reading and detailed discussion of an ordinance that would allow low-speed vehicles and utility terrain vehicles on village roadways under defined conditions. Council member Campbell read the ordinance title during the meeting; the measure will return for a second reading.
Under the draft ordinance, vehicles that meet inspection standards could operate on village streets that do not exceed the ordinance's speed threshold. Staff noted the draft currently reads to allow travel on roads with posted speeds up to 35 miles per hour, although options such as limiting use to 25 mph streets were discussed. Chief Enllo said the village has developed an inspection procedure that mirrors the BMV approach and recommended aligning classifications with existing vehicle enforcement standards: "I feel like you should just emulate whatever's already there," he said.
Council members raised multiple implementation concerns: the equipment list in the draft ordinance does not exactly match the Ohio BMV inspection form (differences noted included horn, license plate lights and seat belts); some council members asked staff to cross-check forms and tailor the ordinance accordingly. The ordinance currently references title and plate requirements; staff will confirm whether local home-rule language can rely on an inspection sticker or whether a title and license plate will be required by state BMV rules.
Discussion also covered enforcement and penalties. The draft classifies violations as a minor misdemeanor (fines limited under that classification), but councilors noted the option of defining an unclassified misdemeanor and delegating fine discretion to the magistrate. Several members expressed a preference for lenient initial enforcement and outreach: warnings and an implementation period were mentioned to reduce burden on residents, especially owners of older golf carts that may lack titles or required equipment.
Council asked staff (Joe and Travis) and the police chief to review sample ordinances from other villages and return with recommended edits before the next meeting. No vote was taken; the item remains at first reading.
