Utility and Golf Cart Policy & Procedure

Purpose

To ensure the safe operation of utility recreational vehicles and golf carts on campus, preventing accidents, injuries, and property damage.

Scope

This policy applies to all utility recreational vehicles (including all-terrain vehicles, minibikes, and similar vehicles designed for unimproved terrain), as well as golf carts and similar utility vehicles used for university-related purposes. This includes:

• Employee use for campus transportation related to job responsibilities
• Transporting large or bulky items
• Access to areas where regular vehicles cannot easily navigate
• Protecting landscaping and university property
• Special events such as commencement, camps, and other university activities

Definitions

• Utility Recreational Vehicles: Motorized vehicles (e.g., minibikes, all-terrain vehicles) not eligible for public road registration.
• Golf Carts: Electric or gas-powered carts, used for transportation and utility purposes on campus.

Registration/Approval

• Prior to purchasing a utility recreational vehicle or golf cart, requests must be reviewed and approved by the relevant Vice President.
• Requests to bring a private vehicle to campus must be approved by the Vice President of the department.

General Operation

• Utility vehicle operators must be employees, authorized lessees, or contractors. Golf cart drivers can be student employees.
• Vehicles must be operated safely to prevent harm to drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and property. Distractions (e.g., using headphones, cell phones) while operating vehicles are prohibited.
• Only utility vehicles can cross Route 7, not golf carts. They may cross streets or highways only when certain conditions are met, including yielding the right of way to traffic, stopping before crossing, and using lights during low visibility or night hours.
• Vehicles must be equipped with the required safety features like lights, reflectors, and brakes.

Passenger Limit/Load Capacity

• Do not exceed the manufacturer’s seating or load capacity.
• Modifications that affect safety or vehicle operation are prohibited.
• Vehicles must be inspected before each use, checking brakes, tires, battery, and other essential components.
• Cargo must be secured properly in the vehicle’s designated storage area; passengers and cargo cannot be placed on the roof.

Parking

• Vehicles left overnight outdoors must be locked and secured.
• Vehicles should not be parked in fire lanes, handicapped spaces without a permit, or areas that block pedestrian/vehicular traffic or building entrances.
• Ignition keys must be removed when vehicles are unattended, and the parking brake should always be set.

Driving Rules

• Operators must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license.
• Vehicle use on public roads is prohibited.
• Maximum speed limit on campus is 15 mph, with operators required to yield to pedestrians and reduce speed in congested areas.
• When backing up, drivers must check for obstructions or people.
• Vehicles must remain on designated paths, avoid rough terrain, and reduce speed on inclines or during wet/icy conditions.
• Drivers must signal lane changes or turns using hand signals if the vehicle lacks turn indicators.

Accidents

• Any accidents, whether involving property damage or injury, must be reported immediately to the operator’s supervisor and the Department of Public Safety.
• Accidents involving injury must also be reported to Human Resources.

Enforcement

Violations of this policy may result in the suspension of the right to operate a utility vehicle or golf cart on campus.

This policy applies to all such vehicles operating on Bryant University property, and all individuals using these vehicles must adhere to the rules outlined herein.