Updated golf cart ordinance adopted

You soon will be seeing golf carts again on the streets of the City of Manchester. A revised ordinance was passed by Council last week.

by Marsha Chartrand

The Manchester City Council met on April 7, and one of the items on the agenda was the revised Golf Cart ordinance. In January, Council had placed a 90-day moratorium on the vehicles, for the winter months and to review the ordinance in light of issues that had come up during its first season of implementation.

Most changes to the ordinance seem relatively simple to understand. Residents attending the meeting for the public hearing did have questions, however. Council addressed the questions during the public hearing to clarify any issues. A copy of the ordinance is printed in last week’s Mirror and is listed in summary below.

All golf carts driving on city streets must be registered, but that is a free process. The only requirement is that the owner shows proof of insurance for the vehicle. A rider on homeowners or auto insurance was recommended. Once registered, the owner will be given a sticker or decal to be affixed to the golf cart, and a copy of the ordinance.

The vehicle must be a golf cart, but not an off-road vehicle, ATV, Gator, go-cart, etc. The operator must be a licensed driver over 16 years old and may not operate a golf cart on M-52 or on pedestrian sidewalks. They may not be operated at a speed exceeding 15 mph. Hours are from 30 minutes after sunrise until 30 minutes before sunset (as established by the National Weather Service). Registration must be completed annually.

At the new Hidden Lakes RV resort on Parr Road (and any other subsequent campgrounds), those carts that are personally owned and those that are owned by the park must be registered and insurance must be carried on the cart to be driven into town. Temporary permits for individual carts will be given out by the park for five days at a time.

Are you ready? Registration should now be available at the City Office and the ordinance will become effective on April 27, and City officials will be prepared to go through the process with you by next Monday, April 21. Call the office at 734-438-7877 or stop in between the hours of 8am and 4:30pm if you have questions or if you need to register. Be safe and fun — and in compliance — this summer!

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.