Those who want to drive golf carts on the street will move a little closer to the road after the city begins taking applications Monday.
City council last month approved allowing carts to be driven on some Jacksonville streets.
Applications are available online at jacksonvilleil.com. Carts will need to pass an inspection before receiving a required permit.
A golf cart or utility terrain vehicle will have to be equipped with certain safety equipment. At a minimum,the vehicles must have brakes, a steering wheel, tires, a rear-view mirror, red reflector warning devices on the front and rear, a slow-moving-vehicle emblem and a headlight visible from at least 500 feet from the front. They will also be required to have a tail lamp that emits red light visible 100 feet from the rear, brake lights, a windshield, a horn, turn signals and seat belts.
Carts and UTVs will not be allowed on Morton Avenue, Main Street or Walnut Street, but will be able to cross those roads at intersections or from streets with stop signs.
While on the street, the vehicles must have headlights and taillights illuminated at all times. They must travel in the same direction as traffic and as close to the right side of the road as possible.
Drivers will have to follow the same traffic regulations as other vehicles, and only those 18 and older are allowed to operate the golf carts or UTVs. All passengers must be at least 8 years old.
The required sticker, which must be displayed on the vehicle, will cost $100 and can be renewed annually.
Those who apply for a permit will have to provide their name and address and a serial number, make and model of the vehicle they will be using. Proof of liability insurance and a driver’s license will also be required.
Those caught without a permit could be fined $500.
