GULFPORT, MS – Starting January 1, 2025, Gulfport residents can legally operate low-speed vehicles, such as golf carts, on city streets with a posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour or less. The Gulfport City Council recently passed an ordinance outlining regulations, including registration requirements, operational restrictions, and safety guidelines.
Under the ordinance, low-speed vehicles must be equipped with safety features mandated by federal regulations and pass an inspection conducted by the Gulfport Police Department. Operators will need a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance to legally drive these vehicles on public roads.
Key Provisions
- Restricted Areas: Low-speed vehicles are prohibited on highways, including U.S. Highway 90, except at designated crossings, and must stick to the outermost lanes on multi-lane streets.
- Registration: Owners must register their vehicles with the city, pay a $100 fee, and display a decal on the vehicle. However, this fee is waived for vehicles with valid Mississippi license plates.
- Penalties: Violations of the ordinance can result in fines of up to $500 per occurrence. Multiple infractions within a year could lead to the revocation of the vehicle’s registration.
Gulfport officials emphasize safety, noting that the city assumes no liability for accidents involving low-speed vehicles. “This ordinance is about regulating and monitoring operations to ensure public safety,” the council stated.
The ordinance aligns with a Mississippi law permitting municipalities to allow low-speed vehicles on local roads. By formalizing these rules, Gulfport aims to provide clarity for residents while addressing public safety concerns. Residents will also receive maps showing where low-speed vehicles are allowed.
The regulation comes as part of Gulfport’s efforts to balance convenience and safety in urban transportation.
