Driving a golf cart on public roads will not be allowed after town council shot down the idea after residents suggested it. 

With only councilmembers Anne Barrington and Laura Hefta voting to approve the ordinance to amend chapter 7.03 of the municipal code by adding a new section, the ordinance failed.  

The proposed section would have allowed the use of golf carts on town roadways, not on trails, parklands and sidewalks.

Parker police Chief Jim Tsurapas noted there has been an increase in golf carts on public roadways and the proposed change would put guidelines in place on when and where the vehicles would be allowed and the required safety equipment to get a permit. 

While Colorado law allows towns to authorize and regulate golf carts and other off-highway vehicles on roadways, a majority of the council felt a proposed plan was not enough to ensure the safety of the public. 

Joshua Rivero expressed his concern that there would be people tempted to not take the time to get licensed and that underaged drivers could use carts. 

Mayor Pro Tem John Diak also had concerns.

“It sounds great but nobody’s gonna follow that,” Diak said of proposed guidelines.

The town’s municipal code has not generally allowed the use of golf cars or off-highway vehicles, such as ATV’s, on town roadways, sidewalks or trails.

Town council did approve two updates to sections of the Parker Municipal Code concerning restrictions on use of certain vehicles, including motorized vehicles.

Updates to section 7.03.020 of the Parker Municipal Code will clarify information related to the permitting process for the use of certain motorized vehicles.

The update also clarifies certain uses of golf cars and other motorized vehicles for the town to perform work in addition to the issuance of permits for authorized uses for people and organizations. 

Also, updates section 12.02.100 of the municipal code which will clarify information related to the permitting process of certain motorized vehicles on any of the town’s trails or park land. 

Either the chief of Parker police or the Parks, Recreation and Open Space director are authorized to issue valid permits.