F’ville OKs rule changes to allow golf carts on many city sidewalks

Fayetteville’s ordinance on motorized carts is now in line with those of Fayette County’s other jurisdictions. The amendment passed by unanimous vote of the City Council at the Aug. 21 meeting.

The main thrust of the motorized cart ordinance was that it be synchronized with other Fayette County jurisdictions. In doing so, permits issued by other government entities would be honored in the city.

Another provision of the amendment allows holders of a valid learner’s permit to operate a cart, as well as individuals at least 12 years of age, if accompanied in the front seat by a licensed driver age 18 or older.

The amendment was tabled at the Aug.7 meeting to give city staff time to obtain clarification on the use of golf carts on sidewalks adjacent to state roadways.

Staff subsequently proposed that golf carts be allowed on city sidewalks, with the exception of sidewalks of five feet in width that run along state highways, such as Ga. highways 54 and 85, because Ga. Dept. of Transportation (DOT) standards pertaining to those sidewalks cannot be met. DOT standards require a 10-foot sidewalk along state roads. City sidewalks along those roadways are often five feet in width.