Bartholomew sheriff updates public on new UTV ordinance

As of Thursday morning, Bartholomew County has a new ordinance in effect that allows certain off-road vehicles to be used on county roads but Sheriff Chris Lane is cautioning drivers to make sure to follow all the rules for the new vehicles.

According to the sheriff’s department, vehicles designated as utility task vehicle are now allowed on county roads in unincorporated areas of the county. Those vehicles must include working headlights, taillights, brake lights, seatbelts for all occupants, turn signals, a traditional steering wheel, a rearview mirror and a roll cage. The vehicles must also be capable of driving at least 35 mph.

Golf carts are allowed within streets in neighborhoods and housing additions.

The vehicles are not allowed on state or federal highways. In Bartholomew County, that includes State Roads 7, 9, 11, 46 or 58 as well as U.S. 31 and Interstate 65.

All operators must also have a valid driver’s license and the vehicle must be insured with a valid insurance card carried in the vehicle.

The drivers are also required to follow all traffic laws.

You can read the complete ordinance here: https://www.bartholomew.in.gov/images/docs/UTVOrdinance.PDF