The City of Marengo permits the operation of golf carts and ORV's within the city limits. No city registration is required. However, for ORV's they are still required to be registered with the State of Iowa.  

We recommend that you review Chapter 77 of the Code of Ordinances for additional clarification and/or questions.

When operating any motor vehicle, including ORVs and golf carts, you should:
  • Stay on the main portion of the street, not near the curb to increase visibility
  • Ensure everybody riding is seated in a spot designed as a seat – no riding in the cargo box
  • Wear seat belts and utilize child restraints for children
  • Follow all state traffic laws and city ordinances such as stop signs, speeding, parking, etc.

​FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Other names for these vehicles include side-by-sides, Utility Vehicles (UTV), Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROV). The City generally uses ORV in this article to refer to these vehicles. ORVs typically have side-by-side seating arrangement, seat belts, and roll over protection. Many of them also have a cargo box on the rear of the vehicle. They also typically have a higher payload capacity and are generally larger (longer and wider) than All-Terrain Vehicles or ATVs.

What is the difference between an ORV and ATV?
We receive many questions regarding the difference between ORVs and ATVs. The key differences between ORVs and ATVs are:
  • Rollover protection on most ORVs vs. none on ATVs
  • Steering wheels on ORVs vs. handlebars on ATVs
  • Bench seats on ORVs vs. straddle seating on ATVs

Are ATVs allowed to operate on Marengo’s streets?
Marengo Code Section 75.05(1) reads: “ATVs may be operated on streets only in accordance with Section 321.234A of the Code of Iowa or on such streets as may be designated by resolution of the Council for the sport of driving ATVs.”
To date, the City Council has not designated any roads for driving ATVs. As such, ATV use is restricted in Marengo.  

Why did Marengo start registering ORVs and Golf Carts?
The underlying reason Marengo started registration is to ensure these vehicles carry some insurance in case of an accident. The hope is that no accident will occur, but if it does, the requirements in the code will help ensure that insurance is in place.

It says I am supposed to get my ORV registered with the State. How do I do this?
Marengo chose to require ORVs to be registered with the State because they are considered a "high theft" item. This means they have a high chance of being stolen if a theft happens on your property. Registering the vehicle with the State of Iowa makes recovery of the vehicle easier as the State will have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in their system. This helps law enforcement identify the vehicle when recovered.

To obtain your State of Iowa registration, you should visit the Recorder's Office at the Iowa County Courthouse. This registration is required prior to obtaining your City registration permit. After speaking with the Recorder's Office, it appears you will need a vehicle title and registration to obtain a State permit.

​Why does my golf cart have to have a bicycle flag and a slow moving vehicle sign?
Iowa State Code requires these features on golf carts. Iowa Code Section 321.247(b) reads: "The golf carts shall be equipped with a slow moving vehicle sign and a bicycle safety flag and operate on the streets only from sunrise to sunset."
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Who can drive ORV or Golf Cart? 
​AGE
Over 18 years old

16-18 years old

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​Under 16 years old
ORV
Valid driver's license

Valid driver's license + Certificate of Completion from State-approved ATC/ORV course

Not allowed
GOLF CART
Valid driver's license

Valid driver's license



Not allowed

​To drive an ORV when 16 – 18 years old, the individual must have a valid driver’s license and complete a State-approved ATV/ORV course. Once complete, the operator must carry a copy of the certificate on them while operating the vehicle.
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Currently, the State of Iowa approves three ATV courses and no ORV specific courses. Information on these courses can be found on the Iowa DNR website or by googling “Iowa ATV course” and following the DNR’s website link. ​