August 9,
2013
Dear Island
Resident:
This letter is a
reminder that all motor vehicles which travel on City of Portland public ways,
including golf carts, must have a valid State of Maine Registration or an Island
Use registration. The state statute that applies is referenced
below:
Title 29-A, Section
501(2-A):
A. An
automobile may be registered for an annual fee of $4.00. A low-speed vehicle or
golf cart may be registered for an annual fee of $4.00. The registrant must show
evidence of payment of the excise tax required by Title 36, section 1482. The
municipality may collect an additional $4.00 fee annually to defray the cost of
removing abandoned vehicles or golf carts.
B. A
low-speed vehicle or golf cart may be operated on an island if the governing
body of the municipality allows. A low-speed vehicle or golf cart may be
operated only on a road or street where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per
hour or less. A low-speed vehicle or golf cart may cross, at an intersection, a
road or street with a posted speed limit of more than 35 miles per
hour.
C. Any
person operating a low-speed vehicle or a golf cart on an island must possess a
valid driving license in any class.
Please be aware
that safe operation of golf carts on the island is a primary concern of the
Portland Police Department. Be
considerate of your neighbors when operating or storing golf carts. Speeding, erratic driving, and passenger
overcrowding are violations of state law and affect the quality of life for
everyone on the island. Be safe so that
everyone can enjoy this unique environment!
