Jackson County Fiscal Court Passes Resolution to Adopt SB-63, Opening Roads to Street-Legal Special Purpose Vehicles

April 10, 2025

McKee, KY — In a major step forward for tourism, recreation, and rural mobility, the Jackson County Fiscal Court has unanimously passed a resolution to adopt Senate Bill 63 (SB-63), officially allowing street-legal special purpose vehicles (SPVs) to operate on designated public roads throughout the county.

This forward-thinking resolution aligns Jackson County with Kentucky’s newly enacted legislation that expands access for SPVs—such as side-by-sides and other off-road vehicles—under a strict framework that prioritizes safety, responsibility, and community impact. The law, which took effect March 26, 2025, permits SPVs to be registered for on-road use provided they meet key requirements including roll bars or roll cages, federal-compliant seatbelts, insurance coverage, and a certified vehicle inspection.

“We are proud to take this step for our community,” said Judge-Executive Shane Gabbard. “Adopting SB-63 opens up new opportunities for Jackson County—from expanding tourism and business traffic to giving local residents and trail users safe, legal access to our roadways. This is about embracing progress while maintaining safety and respect for our people and infrastructure.”

With this resolution, Jackson County joins a growing number of Kentucky counties seizing the economic and recreational benefits of the law. The decision is expected to bolster adventure tourism across the region, particularly in areas with trail systems, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation businesses. By allowing SPVs limited access to public roads, visitors can now more easily connect trails to towns—stopping at restaurants, shops, and local attractions along the way.

Senate Bill 63 includes a 20-mile road use limit for SPVs on highways with centerline pavement markings and requires an annual $10 registration fee. These regulations ensure that SPVs are used in a controlled, lawful manner that keeps roadways safe for all users.

“This is another big win for rural Kentucky,” said a representative from Backroads of Appalachia, which supports trail-connected tourism throughout the state. “Counties like Jackson are showing how smart policy and community engagement can help diversify local economies, support small businesses, and turn Kentucky into a national leader in motorsports and trail tourism.”

The resolution takes effect immediately, and Jackson County officials will work closely with law enforcement, local businesses, and tourism groups to roll out education and enforcement efforts.