For the safety of our residents and visitors, rules and regulations are in place governing the operation of low-speed vehicles (LSVs) in the City limits of Panama City Beach.

An LSV is a four-wheeled vehicle with a top speed of greater than 20 mph but less than 25 mph. These vehicles are never allowed to drive on Panama City Beach Parkway (Back Beach Road) or Hutchison Boulevard (Middle Beach Road) or anywhere the speed limit exceeds 35 mph.

LSVs must comply with Florida safety standards, Section 316.2122 Florida Statutes. Rules for operation include:

• LSVs can only operate on streets where the speed limit is 35 mph or less.
• LSVs must be equipped with headlamps, stop lamps, turn signal lamps, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, parking brakes, rearview mirrors, a windshield, seat belts and have a VIN number.
• Any person operating an LSV must have a valid driver license in his or her possession.
• LSVs must be registered, insured and titled.

Operators of LSVs must follow the rules of the road and wear seat belts and properly utilize child car seats if applicable. LSVs and golf carts are not the same thing. Golf carts may not be on any road with speeds exceeding 25 mph. Side-by-sides and other all terrain vehciles are not allowed on City roadways.

Violation of these rules can result in a $165 fine.

Communcations Specialist Samantha Case can be reached at (850) 233-5100, Ext. 2225.