On October 6, 2014, Fishers adopted Ordinance #090214D which allows residents to request consideration for the approval of golf carts to be used on streets in certain neighborhoods. Indiana law §9-21-1-3 allows municipalities to adopt an ordinance authorizing the use of golf carts. The golf cart ordinance authorizes the use of golf carts on some neighborhood streets if the following conditions are met:
- Fishers has determined that golf carts may be safely operated on the streets within the specific neighborhood;
- A threshold amount (75 percent or higher) of property owners in the neighborhood have approved of their use and the applicant has certified such results in writing; and
- The proper signage in the designated locations has been placed.
The purpose of this policy is to provide a means of transportation that is not only convenient and safe but conserves resources and protects the environment. Golf carts, if properly used, can be an effective way to travel for short distances within the neighborhood. However, to ensure the public safety and welfare, the operation of golf carts must not only comply with normal regulations regarding vehicles but should also comply with special safety regulations intended to protect the operator and passengers in a vehicle that is primarily designed for operation on a golf course and/or for recreational purposes. This policy establishes the basic minimum standards of care to be used by the operators of golf carts on public streets. Likewise, the safety of the general public requires that golf carts, when used as a means of transportation, must also meet certain minimum safety standards that can only be assured through a system of regulations.
For more details on this policy, such as the Definitions Section, please see the golf cart ordinance.