by Leah Justice
Golf carts officially will be allowed in Tryon beginning Wednesday, Jan. 1.
Tryon Town Council met Dec. 17 and reminded residents the ordinance is ready to be enforced.
Tryon’s ordinance includes that golf carts can be operated on town streets that are 35 mph or lower during daylight hours, unless the golf cart is equipped with proper lighting.
Regulations state that a golf cart operator must obtain a permit and sticker from town hall that will be valid for one year as well as sign a form certifying that the driver has read the ordinance, demonstrate proof of ownership and proof of liability insurance and sign a waiver of liability releasing the town and its employees from all liability.
Golf carts will also have to have an inspection performed by the police department.
The golf cart ordinance also restricts golf cart traffic on Trade Street during business hours with the ordinance stating that golf carts are restricted on Trade Street between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Golf carts are allowed to cross Trade Street during those hours in order to get from one side of town to another.
The town also adopted fees for operating a golf cart in the town. Fees will include a $50 permit per year per cart, an inspection fee of $25 and a $100 penalty for violating the ordinance.
Tryon officials decided to adopt a golf cart ordinance after being requested by residents and businesses to allow the use.
Tryon drafted its ordinance from the City of Saluda’s golf cart ordinance, which has been enforced in Saluda for several years.