SIOUX CITY (KTIV) – The Sioux City City Council passed the first reading of an ordinance on Monday, July 6, that would update city code to allow utility terrain vehicles (UTV) on city streets, voting 4-0. Mayor Bob Scott was absent.
The council received its first look at the proposed code changes, which stem from community requests made in January.
What the proposed ordinance would require
Under the updated regulations, UTV drivers must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license. Vehicles cannot exceed posted speed limits or 35 mph, whichever is lower. Proper registration, insurance and safety features would also be required.
UTVs would only be permitted on alleys and one- or two-lane roads. They would not be allowed on sidewalks or trails.
The ordinance would also prohibit UTVs in areas such as downtown Sioux City. This area is generally from Interstate 29 north to West 14th Street, and from Wesley Parkway east to Floyd Boulevard.
The area inside the red lines on this map show the areas of Sioux City where UTVs would be prohibited(KTIV)
The ordinance would not apply to all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), which are still prohibited.
Council to consider public comments before second reading
Council members questioned city staff and Rex Mueller, the Sioux City Police Chief, about enforcement needs and public notification if the ordinance is adopted.
Some citizens also suggested changes to the first draft that they said would improve it, like changes to tire requirements and access to paths to connect to different parts of the city.
City Councilman Craig Berenstein says the comments raised after the first reading will be taken into consideration.
“We know that after first reading, there are significant comments and concerns regarding some of the particular details of the ordinance,” Berenstein said. “I think the comments were well received tonight. We’ve directed city staff and city legal to continue to work with the community, get a better understanding of some of the implications, and then we’ll visit on a second and third reading in the coming weeks.”
The council plans to hold the second reading, incorporating some of the proposed changes, at its July 20 meeting.
Want to get the latest news and weather from Siouxland’s News Source? Follow these links to download our KTIV News app and our First Alert Weather app.
Copyright 2026 KTIV. All rights reserved.