10/22/2026
We've had many questions lately about golf carts, ATVs and side-by-sides on city streets, plus a few about animal control and abatements. Instead of answering them one at a time, here's everything in one spot. I must apologize for it being so lengthy but wanted to make sure all the facts and resources were included.
GOLF CARTS
Yes, you can drive a golf cart on city streets, but not every golf cart qualifies. Under City Code 340.117 it must be classified as a low-speed vehicle (LSV). The manufacturer's paperwork must list it as a low-speed vehicle and say it meets federal safety standards. Most regular course carts won't meet that.
If yours does, you'll need to register it with the City and get a permit, which is $15. You'll also need a valid driver's license and insurance that lists the cart by serial number and model year. The driver must be 18 or older and wear a seat belt. Keep it under 20 mph and put a bright orange triangle flag on the back that sits at least 7 feet off the ground.
Golf carts aren't allowed on state, federal or county highways except to cross them, and you can't cross anywhere the speed limit is over 45. No driving after dark unless the cart has headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals.
ATVs
ATVs are allowed on city streets under Code 340.110, but you need a $15 permit from the City first. You'll also need a valid driver's license (no motorcycle endorsement required) and insurance.
Your ATV also must be titled and registered with the Missouri Department of Revenue. That's state law, not just a city rule. RSMo 301.703 says you must apply for a title within 30 days of getting the ATV, and RSMo 301.707 says it can't be operated anywhere in Missouri unless it's registered. If you bought one used and never titled or registered it, get that done at the license office before you apply for a City permit. If you're visiting from out of state, a valid registration from your home state covers you for up to 30 days.
You can read the state law here, sections 301.700 through 301.714: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneChapter.aspx?chapter=301
On the street, keep it under 30 mph and run the same 7-foot orange flag. Anyone under 18 must wear a helmet. And this one catches a lot of people off guard: no passengers on an ATV unless it's for farm work.
UTVs / SIDE-BY-SIDES
Under Code 340.120 you'll need the same $15 City permit, a valid driver's license (no motorcycle endorsement required) and insurance. On the street you need a working headlight and taillight, a roll bar or roll cage, and everyone buckled in.
For both ATVs and UTVs, stay out of creeks and rivers unless it's your own land, it's for farm use, or you're at a normal road crossing.
CAN I GET A TICKET?
Yes. Depending on what it is, a citation could be written as a city Code violation or a state violation. No license, no insurance, or an unregistered ATV can all be charged under state law, the same as if you were driving a car or truck.
ANIMAL CONTROL AND ABATEMENTS
Questions about loose or nuisance animals, or property that needs cleaning up, are covered in the City's Public Health, Safety and Welfare code: https://ecode360.com/37789603
The full traffic code, including all three vehicle sections, are located here: https://ecode360.com/37789614
We're not out here trying to write tickets. We'd much rather help you get set up the right way and be safe and aware. If you're not sure your cart or ATV meets the requirements, give us a call or stop by before you take it out.
Also please be advised that any fees or regulation requirements for the City are separate than what may be required by Pulaski County. Also City codes, ordinances, and state laws may be amended and updated. The links provided are current as of 10/22/2026.
Chief Bryan Gibbs
