Lexington residents and other South Carolina drivers will soon be able to operate utility task vehicles (UTVs) on public roads, following the passage of a new state law. However, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) advises that until the law officially takes effect later this year, UTVs must remain off public roadways.
The legislation, signed into law on September 21, 2026, by Governor Henry McMaster, permits the use of UTVs on roads with speed limits of 55 miles per hour or less. These vehicles, often used by farmers and for recreational purposes, will need to meet specific requirements to be street-legal. Owners must register their UTVs with the DMV, obtain a title, and secure liability insurance. Additionally, UTVs will be subject to an annual property tax, similar to other vehicles. The law also mandates that UTVs be equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and seatbelts to ensure safety on public thoroughfares.
This change could impact how Lexingtonians navigate areas like the Main Street corridor or Sunset Boulevard, particularly for those who use UTVs for work or leisure activities around Lake Murray. The new regulations aim to provide clarity for UTV owners while integrating these vehicles safely into the existing traffic framework. Until the DMV finalizes the implementation details and the law fully takes effect, operating UTVs on public roads remains prohibited.