This bill establishes new regulations for the operation of utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) in Florida by creating a new section, 316.21275, in the Florida Statutes. It defines a UTV and outlines the conditions under which these vehicles can be operated, including the requirement for a driver to possess a valid driver’s license or a learner's permit under direct supervision. UTVs are authorized to operate on designated two-lane county roads and municipal streets with speed limits under 55 miles per hour, and they may cross the State Highway System at designated points. The bill also allows counties and municipalities to impose additional restrictions or prohibitions on UTV operations for safety reasons.

Additionally, the bill amends section 320.0847 to include UTVs in the list of vehicles eligible for license plates, which must comply with specific provisions. It mandates that the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles issue a license plate upon payment of the required taxes and fees. Violations of the new UTV regulations are classified as noncriminal traffic infractions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 221 Filed: 320.0847