Police issue reminders in golf cart safety

Nicer weather means more golf carts on the road. Lincoln Police are reminding residents how to legally operate a golf cart. "With the warm weather rolling in, we're starting to see more golf carts and NEVs out around town. This is a good time for a quick reminder about where they can legally be used," police said in a Facebook press release. "In Lincoln, golf carts without DMV-issued license plates (meaning they are not a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle-NEV) cannot be operated on public roadways, with one exception." Lincoln is widely known for its lush green golf courses and popularized usage of golf carts as easy transportation when the weather is nice. "Sun City Lincoln Hills (SCLH), golf carts may be used on the streets inside the development only if they have a valid City of Lincoln golf cart permit. Outside of SCLH, golf carts cannot be operated anywhere on public roadways outside of SCLH and NEVs must have DMV-issued license plates (two plates) to be operated in Lincoln," police said. Police added, "Private communities, golf carts and NEVs may be used within the private community, but they cannot leave that community or enter public streets unless the cart is registered with the DMV and displays license plates. If your cart doesn't have a plate, keep it on private property or within SCLH with the proper city permit. NEVs must maintain current registration just like your cars. Removing the license plates does not make them a golf cart, once a registered vehicle, always a registered vehicle in the eyes of the law. Golf carts operated on public roadways without valid registration/permits are subject to citation and immediate towing." More information about vehicle requirements, allowable roadways and permit requirements can be found on the city of Lincoln website or here.