Caldwell County is advancing an ordinance to allow street-legal special purpose vehicles on state highways and county roads in unincorporated areas, after action by the fiscal court Tuesday morning.
Earlier this year, the 2025 Kentucky General Assembly approved Senate Bill 63, letting local governments allow street-legal special-purpose vehicles on certain roads. The law took effect on June 27.
During the meeting, Judge Executive Kota Young clarified that the ordinance applies only to unincorporated areas of the county.
District 4 Magistrate Jeff Simms noted the situation remains fluid and changes are possible as the law matures. Young further explained that the Fiscal Court is following state law.
County Clerk Jennifer Hale outlined how the ordinance impacts local farmers.
click to download audioHale also shared some of the ramifications of the ordinance and explained that buyers must show proof of sales tax paid or pay tax based on the state’s assessed value.
click to download audioShe said that farmers who do not license off-road vehicles remain sales tax exempt, just as before the law was passed by the General Assembly.
After Young read the ordinance, Simms stressed it carries the same responsibilities as motor vehicles. He expressed concerns as a legislative body about unlicensed, especially youth, or impaired drivers, and potential accidents with larger vehicles.
click to download audioDistrict 2 Magistrate Jeff Boone added that the ordinance only covers unincorporated areas and does not impact decisions made by Fredonia or Princeton.
Following the discussion, the magistrates unanimously passed the ordinance on first reading. As a reminder, Judge Young said that no county ordinance becomes effective or legal until the second reading is approved.
Hale shared additional details on sales tax and registration for street-legal special-purpose vehicles, while Sheriff Don Weedman discussed inspection requirements. WPKY’s News Edge will have more on these topics in the coming days.
