Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today that his office is receiving numerous complaints regarding unlicensed under speed vehicles (golf carts) on Mercer County roadways, as well at ATV's on public roadways. In response, his office is making this information available to the public.
 An under speed vehicle is described as a four wheeled vehicle that is designed with a top attainable speed of 20 mph or less, and not originally designed for operation on a street or highway. Most golf carts are considered under speed vehicles. Under speed vehicles are required to be registered, inspected and insured prior to being operated on any roadway. Once licensed, golf carts and other under speed vehicles (USV's) may only be operated on public streets in unincorporated areas. They may not be operated in incorporated areas unless the incorporated areas have an ordinance allowing their use on public streets. They also may not be operated on any public street or highway where the posted speed limit is higher that 35MPH. (ORC 4519.40). The use of a slow moving vehicle sign (SMV) is prohibited on under speed vehicles.
 Sheriff Grey also reminds motorists that ATV's (three and four wheelers) do not fall under the definition of farm machinery, and are not permitted to be operated on public roadways, except to cross the roadways with the proper permit.
