The City of Orange Beach has approved amendments to its golf cart ordinance that ensures golf cart rental companies must undergo inspection and permit requirements in the same way as required for residents.
"Golf carts have become a way of life here in Orange Beach, and the city always wants to maintain the balance between safety and recreation for our residents," said Ford Handley, Orange Beach city administrator. "Safety is always our No. 1 priority."
Handley said a "major increase" in golf cart use and ownership has occurred over the past few years in Orange Beach. Residents can attend upcoming golf cart inspections to confirm their vehicle meets the city's standards.
Inspection is required to receive a city-issued permit for operation. A state regulated tag is also required for golf carts to be used on designated roads in the city.
The qualifications for passing the inspection and the rules for operation are detailed in the new ordinance amendment, which was approved at the city's Oct. 1 council meeting. Details of the upcoming inspections can be found in an article on www.gulfcoastmedia.com the city's website.
In Orange Beach, golf carts are not allowed on roadways that have a speed limit above 25 mph. This appears to be one of the main rules for operation based on comments during the Sept. 17 council meeting, where the amendment was first announced.
In addition to the amendments to the ordinance, an article was added that addresses recreational vehicle rentals. This article applies not only to golf cart rentals but includes any recreational vehicle that can be rented out at hourly, daily or weekly rates as a mode of transportation.
While the article covers all rentable vehicles for recreation, it mentions some examples, including slingshots, scooters, motorcycles, bicycles golf carts and other low speed vehicles.
The article requires rental companies to have their logo displayed on the vehicle and have a flag indicating that it is a rental. The flag must be displayed in a spot that does not obstruct the driver's view.
