CARDINIA Shire council has officially endorsed a local law prohibiting the use of unregistered recreational vehicles, with those caught to face vehicle impoundment and tough penalties.
Last week, councillors voted to amend the proposed local law 14, introduced in February this year, to clarify the term "recreational vehicle".
Changes exclude recreational vehicles engaged in legitimate farming activities, motorised wheelchairs and motor-assisted bicycles that do not exceed 200 watts.
The law, supported by the Cockatoo Township Committee, Emerald Village Committee and Victoria Police, is similar to one brought in by Frankston City Council in October 2007.
It bars unregistered vehicles from being ridden on roads and in public places, with users facing penalties of more than $550 plus a six-month impoundment of the vehicle for a first offence and $850 for a second offence.
The council would also have the power to sell, destroy or dispose of any impounded vehicle if the owner did not paid related fines within 28 days.
Police would also be able to issue fines for unlicensed riding, riding without a helmet and riding an unregistered vehicle on the road.
A recreational vehicle includes any mini-bike, trail bike, motor bike, motor scooter, go-cart or other vehicle propelled by a motor.
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