Scott County officials are moving forward with new regulations for the inspection and titling of special purpose vehicles, following discussions during the Fiscal Court Work Session on June 6, 2025. The proposed changes aim to streamline the process for owners of these vehicles, which include utility task vehicles (UTVs) and similar models.

Under the new ordinance, owners will be required to have their vehicles inspected annually by the sheriff's office, with a set inspection fee of $25. This inspection is a prerequisite for obtaining a title, which incurs a one-time fee of $10. The discussions highlighted that while these vehicles are initially classified as personal property, they may be subject to ad valorem taxes if they are reclassified as vehicles.

Sheriff Nittles confirmed that the sheriff's office will be the primary authority for inspections, but there is potential for certified dealerships to conduct inspections as well. This certification process could allow businesses that sell a significant number of vehicles to perform inspections on-site, making it more convenient for customers.

Concerns were raised about the potential for vehicle owners to purchase insurance temporarily to meet licensing requirements, which could lead to issues with uninsured vehicles on the road. The court acknowledged the need for further clarification on insurance monitoring related to these vehicles.

The court also discussed the safety implications of allowing these vehicles on roads with speed limits up to 55 miles per hour. While some members expressed concerns about the safety of operating UTVs at higher speeds, others noted that these vehicles are designed with safety features that could make them safer than motorcycles.

As the court continues to refine these regulations, they aim to balance public safety with the needs of vehicle owners and businesses in Scott County. The next steps will involve finalizing the ordinance and addressing any outstanding questions regarding implementation and enforcement.