Columbus council gives first approval to off-road vehicle changes

Columbus City Council gave its first approval this week to an ordinance change that would allow some smaller recreational vehicles to be used on city streets.

City officials said that the change is mean to address residents desire to allow the vehicles and to set up consistent oversight. The change would also allow the city to align with county ordinances put into place last year.

Two types of vehicles, golf carts and utility task vehicles would be allowed in certain locations. The change would still prohibit all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, snow mobiles and other recreational off road vehicles.

UTVs are similar to ATVs, but must have at least four wheels, side-by-side seating for two or more people, be less than a ton in weight and be no more than 74 inches wide. They would need to have lights including headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals, seatbelts, a horn, rearview mirror and working brakes.

The vehicles would not allowed on some busy city streets including Central Avenue, Washington Street from 11th to 25th streets, 25th Street from Washington to National Road and Goeller Boulevard from Jonathan Moore Pike to the west Tipton Lakes Boulevard intersection.

And they would not be allowed on side walks, trails or bike paths, on state highways or freeways or on other roads posted at more than 30 mph.

All operators must also have a valid driver’s license, be at least 16 and a half years old and the vehicle must be insured with state minimum liability coverage.

The drivers would also required to follow all traffic laws.

Councilwoman Grace Kestler pointed that she was alerted to a new class of vehicles called low-speed vehicles, which are basically higher end golf carts with all the required safety features. She questioned whether the ordinance as proposed would cover those vehicles as well.

Councilman Jay Foist said he was most concerned about people using electric bikes driving at excessive speeds on the People Trail. The proposed ordinance would not apply to those types of vehicles.

A city ordinance requires two hearings and council approvals before going into effect.