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 may 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, requiring the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to issue plates upon payment of applicable taxes and fees. The license plates for UTVs must comply with specific provisions outlined in the law. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations and is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
H 101 Filed: 320.0847