By Mid-August UTV are Expected to be Legal. Here’s What you Need to Know.
Update: this ordinance passed its final reading on Aug. 8 and has been adopted.
The North Liberty City Council is on track to approve a proposed ordinance allowing off-road utility vehicles, or UTVs, with roll bars on North Liberty streets between 6 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. Final approval is expected in mid-August.
The proposed ordinance does not legalize ATVs, or all-terrain vehicles.
To be used in city limits, UTVs will need to be equipped similarly to other motor vehicles with:
- Turn signals
- An illuminated speedometer in miles per hour
- Headlights, taillights and a brake light
- A horn
- A rear-facing mirror
- A muffler
Drivers will need to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. All occupants will be required to wear their seatbelts with children secured in a car seat and pets secured in an enclosure. The UTV must be registered with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and have proof of insurance.
The ordinance will prohibit intoxicated drivers, open containers, reckless driving and speeds over 35 miles per hour. ATVs without roll cages are not being legalized. Motorized vehicles remain prohibited in parks and on trails.
Before the update to Chapter 75 takes effect, the ordinance requires an additional vote for approval at a future city council meeting, which is expected to be held at its regular meeting scheduled for Aug. 8, and then be published.
The ordinance is set to expire on Dec. 31, 2024, unless the city council takes further action.
