In Ripon, golf carts may only be operated under limited conditions. The driver must have a valid driver’s license, no more than two people may be on board, and all traffic laws, signs, and signals must be followed. Golf carts may only be driven on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less, though roads up to 35 mph may be used briefly to cross or connect to 25 mph roadways.
The Ripon Police Department is reminding residents that golf carts and low-speed vehicles must meet specific legal requirements before being operated on city streets.
According to the department, officers will be proactively enforcing illegal golf cart use within city limits as part of an effort to improve roadway safety and keep traffic moving smoothly throughout the community.
Under California Vehicle Code 345, a golf cart is defined as a motor vehicle with at least three wheels, weighing less than 1,300 pounds, designed to travel no more than 15 mph, and intended to carry golf equipment and no more than two people, including the driver.
In Ripon, golf carts may only be operated under limited conditions. The driver must have a valid driver’s license, no more than two people may be on board, and all traffic laws, signs, and signals must be followed. Golf carts may only be driven on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less, though roads up to 35 mph may be used briefly to cross or connect to 25 mph roadways.
Police also noted that golf carts must be used within one mile of a golf course, must be traveling directly to or from a golf course, and must be transporting golf equipment for play or practice. Golf cart operation is also limited to daylight hours.
The department also shared information about Low-Speed Vehicles, also known as Neighborhood Electric Vehicles. Under California Vehicle Code §385.5(a), a low-speed vehicle is a four-wheeled motor vehicle that can travel more than 20 mph but not more than 25 mph in one mile on a paved, level surface. The vehicle must also have a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 3,000 pounds.
Unlike a standard golf cart, a Low-Speed Vehicle or Neighborhood Electric Vehicle must have a Vehicle Identification Number, be registered with the DMV, display valid license plates, be covered by liability insurance, and meet applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. The driver must also hold a valid driver’s license.
Low-Speed Vehicles may not be operated on roadways with posted speed limits greater than 35 mph.
Required safety equipment for Low-Speed Vehicles includes items such as a windshield, exterior mirrors, headlamps, front and rear turn signals, parking brake, reflex reflectors, tail lamps and stop lamps, seat belts for each designated seat, and a Vehicle Identification Number.
The Ripon Police Department said these regulations are in place to help keep local roadways safe for drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and other members of the community.