The
Bluffton Blufft n Sun December 9, 2025 • Volume 28, Issue 24 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com
New golf cart/specialized vehicle safety rules takes effect Jan. 1st Bluffton Town Council has approved a new ordinance regulating the use of golf carts and specialized vehicles, which includes low-speed vehicles and utility terrain vehicles, within Town limits, adopting several safety requirements that will take effect Jan. 1st, 2026. “This ordinance is the result of listening to our residents,” Mayor Larry Toomer said. “At the public workshop in August, many residents made it clear they supported stronger safety measures, and the Town has a responsibility to lead by example. Our goal is simple: keep people safe while preserving the Bluffton culture we all love.” Key provisions of the new law Safety requirements • All occupants —adults and children— must wear seat belts while the golf
cart or specialized vehicle is in motion. • Drivers must be at least 16 and hold a valid driver’s license. Equipment • All golf cart or specialized vehicles must have a rearview mirror. • Golf cart and specialized vehicle operating before sunrise or after sunset must have headlights, taillights and turn signals. • Golf cart and specialized vehicle must be registered with the S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles, with decals displayed on the lower left windshield. • Proof of liability insurance is required and must be present when operating specialized vehicles. Where they may operate • Golf cart and specialized vehicles are prohibited on streets with speed limits over 35 mph unless a designated lane is provided. • Golf cart and specialized vehicles may not enter roundabouts or traffic circles. • Golf cart and specialized vehicles are not permitted to travel along four-lane roads • Golf cart and Specialized vehicles crossing
four-lane roads is permitted only at traffic light intersections. Penalties Violations may carry fines of up to $500 or up to 30 days in jail. New specialized vehicles and golf carts law education campaign begins in December The Town is launching an education campaign to help residents prepare for the new law. The campaign will roll out in two phases, providing golf cart and specialized vehicle owners time to learn the requirements and make any needed upgrades. Phase 1 — Education (December 2025): Outreach through social media, printed materials and communication with local golf cart dealers and repair shops. Phase 2 — Enforcement (2026): After January 1, Bluffton Police Department will begin issuing citations while continuing education efforts. How to prepare your golf cart/specialized vehicle: Residents should confirm their golf
SAFETY CONT. ON PAGE 3
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