GRPD Shares Guidance on Low-Speed Vehicles in the City

As visitor numbers and transportation options continue to grow in the city of Grand Rapids, the GRPD is reminding residents of the rules and regulations for operating low-speed vehicles and golf carts on city streets.

What Counts as a Low-Speed Vehicle?

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In Grand Rapids, street-legal low-speed vehicles (LSVs) are four-wheeled motor vehicles that can travel between 20 and 25 mph and weigh less than 3,000 pounds. These include modified street-legal golf carts, Global Electric Motorcars (GEMs) and other small electric utility vehicles.

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E-bikes and scooters are not considered LSVs. Instead, they are legally classified as “micromobility devices” and are generally treated similarly to traditional bicycles.

Read More: The Real Rules Behind Michigan’s E-Scooter DUI Debate

What GRPD Wants You to Know About Low-Speed Vehicles

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The Grand Rapids Police Department recently shared a reminder on its Facebook page about the rules for operating low-speed vehicles and golf carts on city streets. Below are some key points from GRPD’s media release.

• LSVs are not permitted on sidewalks. E-bikes and e-scooters may use sidewalks outside the Downtown Improvement District, but they are also allowed on roadways and in designated bike lanes. Mopeds are not allowed on sidewalks or in bike lanes.
• LSVs are limited to a maximum speed of 25 mph and are not permitted on streets with posted speed limits above 35 mph.
• To be considered street legal, golf carts must be equipped with required safety features, including headlights, front and rear turn signals, taillights, brake lights, side reflectors, two rearview mirrors, a parking brake, a federally compliant windshield, a vehicle identification number (VIN), seatbelts for each seating position, rear visibility requirements, and a horn. They must also have a title, proper Secretary of State registration, a license plate, and valid insurance.

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If you plan to drive an LSV on Grand Rapids streets, make sure your vehicle meets all the requirements listed above to avoid potential tickets and fines.

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