On the heels of its passage during the 2025 Regular Session, Senate Bill 63 became effective last month, allowing street-legal special purpose vehicles on highways within county jurisdictions pending the adoption of a local ordinance.
Sen. Storm, the bill’s sponsor, emphasized SB 63’s focus on local control and rural tourism.
“The opt-in aspect of the bill is great,” Storm said. “If your community wants this to be passed…that’s up to you all. If they don’t, then…you don’t have to do anything about it.”
Storm also noted the law’s potential economic impact.
“Let’s make a safe haven for these places…they can get gas, a cheeseburger, candy for the kids,” he said. “We hope to fill every hotel, motel, Airbnb…with tourists.”
Storm spotlighted the 2024 Backroads of Appalachia Economic Impact Report, which underscores tourism growth in Eastern Kentucky reinforcing SB 63’s intent to revitalize struggling regions.
Ornstein clarified legal questions on the ordinance process such as county ordinance only affects unincorporated areas and cities must opt in separately. SLSPVs cannot use interstates, parkways or certain federal highways. Regardless of local ordinance adoption, sheriff’s offices must inspect SPVs prior to registration, which requires a $25 inspection fee and compliance with safety standards listed in KRS 186.077(1)(c).
Denny explained the registration, titling and licensing processes. SPVs receive motorcycle plates, require insurance, and pay an annual $19.50 registration fee. Even if a county doesn’t opt in, clerks must license SLSPVs, and sheriffs must inspect them.
“It is just like a boat,” Denny said. “You may not have a lake, but you can own a boat."
With SB 63 in effect, local leaders must determine whether to opt in or not. Ornstein encourages county officials to reach out to KACo if they have additional questions.
Find a recording of the webinar here.
To access the presentation, click here.
Click here to download a sample ordinance.
