The City of Great Bend is re-evaluating its ordinance regarding the operation of golf carts on designated city streets. The topic is on the agenda for the next city council meeting, set for 5:30 p.m. Monday, March 2, at City Hall.
In 2024, the council discussed allowing golf carts on some streets multiple times, with Great Bend resident Troy McFarren speaking in favor of an ordinance. However, it was ultimately voted down.
According to the agenda, the new proposal comes after review and discussion involving McFarren, City Administrator Logan Burns and Mayor Alan Moeder. The following description comes from the agenda:
Several modifications have been recommended to limit golf cart access on higher-traffic corridors to enhance public safety. Under the revised proposal, carts will be prohibited from operating on any state or federal highway, connecting link, and specified arterial streets within the city, including Broadway east of Patton Road; 24th Street; McKinley; Harrison south of 24th Street; Washington; and Patton north of 10th St. Operation would be permitted only on streets with posted speed limits of 30 miles per hour or less. Golf carts would, however, be allowed to cross restricted roadways at designated intersections.
The ordinance would also permit night-time operation, as all golf carts operating within the city must be equipped with the lighting and signaling devices required under the ordinance.
Additional amendments strengthen safety and regulatory requirements. Golf carts equipped with rear-facing seats would be required to have seat belts installed and utilized.
Registration stickers would be issued by the Chief of Police following inspection to ensure compliance. Required safety equipment would include operational headlights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts where applicable, and a properly displayed slow-moving vehicle emblem. All owners would be required to maintain liability insurance and pay the applicable registration fee of $30 as established in the city’s master fee schedule.
Operators must be at least 16 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license while operating a golf cart within city limits.
