North Liberty takes first step to allow UTVs on city streets

NORTH LIBERTY — The North Liberty City Council this week took the first step to allow utility task vehicles — or UTVs — to operate on city streets, but driving these vehicles in the city isn’t legal just yet.

The council unanimously approved the first consideration of the ordinance, but two more approvals are needed before its legal to operate UTVs on North Liberty streets.

The council earlier this year gave city staff the green light to begin drafting the ordinance after a request from the 4-County Recreational Vehicle Association, which represents Johnson, Linn, Benton and Iowa counties.

The ordinance allows the use of UTVs and establishes minimum safety requirements supported by the North Liberty Police Department, City Administrator Ryan Heiar wrote in a memo to council. The ordinance is consistent with other cities that have chosen to allow UTVs on their streets.

A state law passed last year allows registered all-terrain vehicles and UTVs to be operated in all 99 counties as along as the rider follows the various rules outlined in the law. The legislation allows cities to regulate operation within their city limits.

An UTV has four wheels and side-by-side seating with a steering wheel. An all-terrain vehicle, or ATV, holds one or two people and is straddled like a motorcycle.

Last year, Marion voted to allow UTVs on city streets. North Liberty’s ordinance also only includes UTVs.

Council member Brian Wayson said there is an “intentional sunset if this doesn’t work.” The ordinance’s section with UTVs will be automatically repealed on Dec. 31, 2024, if council doesn’t take action.

The ordinance outlines various equipment requirements and restrictions while operating UTVs within city limits. This includes drivers being at least 18 with a valid driver’s license, insurance and vehicle registration; following noise restrictions; displaying lighted headlamps and tail laps at all times while driving; following all traffic laws, and other requirements.

The ordinance also outlines that UTVs must be equipped with, among other things, turn-signals lamps, speedometer, horn, headlamps, taillamps and rear-facing mirror.

Once the ordinance is approved, UTVs could be operated on North Liberty roadways from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. All occupants must wear safety belts or safety harnesses while the UTV is in motion.

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