The bill H. 3293 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 56-2-140, which establishes regulations for the registration and operation of Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) on highways. It defines key terms such as "gated community" and "Utility Terrain Vehicle," specifying the characteristics that qualify a vehicle as a UTV. The bill allows individuals or business owners to obtain a permit decal and registration from the Department of Motor Vehicles, provided they present proof of ownership and liability insurance, along with a five-dollar fee. UTVs can only be operated during daylight hours on secondary highways or streets with a speed limit of fifty-five miles per hour or less, and operators must be at least sixteen years old with a valid driver's license.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific conditions under which UTVs may operate, including restrictions on distance from the registered address and provisions for crossing highways. It allows political subdivisions to modify operational areas and create separate UTV paths on designated roads, while also permitting nighttime operation on barrier islands under certain conditions. The legislation emphasizes that public safety agencies are exempt from the restrictions placed on UTV operations. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 56-2-140
Latest Version: 56-2-140
12/06/2024: 56-2-140