10.35.020 Requirements and restrictions.
The following use, operational requirements, and restrictions are adopted by the city for golf carts:
(1) Every person operating a golf cart as authorized under this section is granted all rights and is subject to all duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle under Chapter 46.61 RCW.
(2) A golf cart may be operated on a street by a person as follows:
(a) Every person operating a golf cart as authorized under this section must be at least 16 years of age and must have completed a driver education course or have previous experience driving as a licensed driver.
(b) A person who has a revoked license under RCW 46.20.285 may not operate a golf cart as authorized under this section.
(c) Any person operating a golf cart, as authorized under this section, shall not transport more passengers than the manufacturer’s designed seating capacity. All occupants shall be seated during operation and the use of seat belts shall be mandatory while the golf cart is being operated.
(d) No person may operate a golf cart in the city unless the person is insured under a liability policy with liability limits of at least the amounts provided in RCW 46.29.090. Written proof of financial responsibility must be provided on the request of a law enforcement officer.
(e) A golf cart may not be operated without first being registered with the city and the registration number conspicuously displayed upon the back of the golf cart.
(3) All operators of golf carts shall adhere to all rules of the road applicable to motorized vehicles as set forth in Chapter 46.61 RCW and Chapter 308-330 WAC. Specific attention is to be paid to the intent of RCW 46.61.502, “Driving under the influence,” and to RCW 46.61.519, “Alcoholic beverages – Drinking or open container in vehicle.”
(4) Golf carts shall not be operated on a street during one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise.
(5) Golf carts shall not be operated on a street in a negligent manner. For the purpose of this subsection, “to operate in a negligent manner” is defined as the operation of a golf cart in such a manner as to endanger any person or property, or to obstruct, hinder, or impede the lawful course of travel of any motor vehicle or the lawful use by any pedestrian of public streets, sidewalks, paths, trails, walkways, or parks.
(6) Golf carts must be equipped with reflectors, seat belts, and rearview mirrors when operated upon streets and highways as authorized under this section.
(7) Golf carts are exempt from vehicle licensing requirements. (Ord. 498 § 1, 2015)