On January 1, 2026, the Town of Bluffton officially implemented a new safety ordinance regulating the use of specialized vehicles such as golf carts, low-speed vehicles, and utility terrain vehicles within town limits. This law was approved by the Town Council in a 4-1 vote on November 13, 2025, following months of community engagement and a public workshop where residents expressed strong support for enhanced safety measures. The primary goal of these regulations is to improve public safety and reduce accidents while preserving the unique golf cart culture that is central to the Bluffton community.
Under the new requirements, all occupants of a specialized vehicle, including both adults and children, must wear seat belts while the vehicle is in motion. Drivers are required to be at least 16 years of age and must possess a valid driver’s license. Equipment standards have also been updated, necessitating that every specialized vehicle be equipped with a rearview mirror. For those operating vehicles before sunrise or after sunset, the law mandates functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Additionally, all specialized vehicles must have proof of liability insurance, and golf carts and low-speed vehicles must be registered with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles with a permit decal displayed on the lower left of the windshield.
The ordinance also establishes specific geographic limitations for where these vehicles can be operated. Specialized vehicles are restricted to roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower unless a designated lane is provided. Travel is strictly prohibited along four-lane roads, although vehicles may cross these larger roadways at intersections equipped with traffic lights. Furthermore, specialized vehicles are not permitted in roundabouts or traffic circles, and they are barred from use on pathways and sidewalks.
Failure to comply with these new regulations can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to 500 dollars or a jail sentence of up to 30 days. To ensure a smooth transition, the Town of Bluffton conducted a two-phase rollout starting with an educational campaign in December 2025 that utilized social media, printed materials, and outreach to local dealers. Beginning in early 2026, the Bluffton Police Department shifted to the enforcement phase, issuing citations for violations while continuing to prioritize community education. Residents who live in areas like the Alljoy community or neighborhoods off Burnt Church Road should note that while they may live outside town limits, the ordinance applies whenever they travel on town-maintained roads.
