The Pulaski County Commissioners have given approval to an ordinance allowing the use of ATV’s for agricultural purposes.
For several weeks, Pulaski County has been working to craft the ordinance. The language puts Pulaski County into compliance with state statute allowing landowners to use ATV’s to travel their property.
Pulaski County Attorney Kevin Tankersley says there are certain requirements that must be met before being in compliance with the ordinance.
“You have to be a licensed driver,” says Tankersley. “This doesn’t authorize those who aren’t licensed or those that have lost their license to drive an ATV. I really strongly encourage people to read the ordinance. Don’t assume this is carte blanche. ‘I’m covered now. I think I’ll drive my ATV down the road.’
There are other uses for ATV’s besides agriculture. Pulaski County also allows government officials and surveyors to use ATV’s for certain purposes. Similar to operating a car, owners and drivers of an off-road vehicle must register the car with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Whether to include golf carts in the ordinance was discussed for several weeks. The county ultimately decided against their use in the language due to the parameters of the state law.
Responding to some questions about insurance requirements, Commissioner Terry Young says people should speak with their insurance representatives.
“It brings on some responsibility to the individual,” says Young. “They wanted it and now it’s going to be their deal.”
The Commissioners did not engage in much discussion Tuesday night after weeks of discussing the issue.
The ATV ordinance was approved unanimously.
