Mulberry council votes to remove ban on side-by-side off-road vehicles; will follow state rules

The Mulberry Town Council voted to remove a town ordinance restriction that had prohibited side-by-side off-road vehicles, directing staff to revise the local traffic code so it follows state law.

A committee member raised concerns that the existing prohibition was inconsistent with users’ needs and with county practices. Council discussion noted that state rules already impose registration, insurance and age requirements, and that side-by-sides can carry stricter requirements than passenger vehicles (including a zero-tolerance alcohol rule and minimum age). The committee member who moved the change said removing the local prohibition would allow the vehicles under state rules; the motion was seconded by another member.

During debate, several council members voiced safety and street-damage concerns and discussed possible local controls (for example, banning alley travel or requiring local registration similar to golf carts). One committee member argued for a registration approach to allow local checks on lights and brakes; others preferred simply removing the ban and monitoring how use plays out. The motion to remove the restriction was made, seconded and recorded with a majority in favor and at least one opposing vote.

Why it matters: The change will allow residents and visiting drivers to operate side-by-side vehicles in town where state law permits, subject to the state’s registration and equipment rules. Council members noted tradeoffs between local control (separate ordinance, local registration and alley restrictions) and simplicity (following state law, with no separate local registration).

Next steps: Staff will prepare ordinance revisions to remove the prohibition and present the amended ordinance for formal readings and adoption. The council discussed but did not adopt a local registration requirement at this meeting; members said they could add local controls later if problems arise.