Proposed ordinance would outlaw drag racing on Lexington streets. See what would be banned.
During its August 11th meeting, Council's Social Services and Public Safety Committee will review a newly proposed ordinance that prohibits street races and "reckless driving exhibitions," such as burnouts, wheelies and more.
The draft ordinance would allow law enforcement to impound vehicles and fine owners up to $4,500 in some cases. It comes after complaints from residents and takes inspiration from a similar ordinance Louisville passed in 2022.
As with any draft ordinance, if it advances out of committee, it would need two readings by the full Council before officially becoming law.
Read the packet for this meeting here.
Council's August 11th Social Services and Public Safety Committee will take place at 1 p.m. in the Government Center's Council Chamber. You can attend in-person or watch live on LexTV.
What would be banned under the ordinance?
The draft ordinance outlaws what it calls "vehicle speed contests," which includes using a vehicle in a race against another, against a clock or another timing device.
Reckless driving displays are also prohibited. That covers maneuvers such as:
- Burnouts
- Doughnuts
- Drifting
- Wheelies
- Other dangerous vehicle activity on a street
The ordinance goes beyond just banning the races and driving exhibitions themselves, however. It also targets people who organize the events via social media or otherwise and who use their vehicles to block streets so they can take place.
What are the penalties?
Owners of vehicles used in these events, or who use their vehicles to block streets to enable them, would be subject to a civil penalty and face a fine of $2,250 for a first offense. For repeat offenses, the fine jumps to $4,500.
Additionally, the ordinance allows for impounding violator's vehicles, including 30 days for a first offense and 60 days for later offenses. It's worth noting that these civil penalties cover the cost of storing the vehicle for 30 or 60 days while it's impounded. Owners would also have to pay towing fees, along with storage fees for additional days, according to a Council presentation outlining the ordinance.
People who promote or organize a street race or reckless driving exhibition face a $1,000 fine for a first offense and up to $2,000 for each follow-up offense.
Could police seize a vehicle immediately?
Yes.
The ordinance states that officers "may immediately seize and impound a vehicle" based on video surveillance, photographs, their personal observation, or sworn witness statements. When impounding a vehicle, officers issue a citation and notify the owner of their right to appeal.
They can also notify a vehicle owner that their vehicle will be impounded later.
How does someone appeal?
Appeals go to Lexington's Administrative Hearing Board, which hears appeals for civil penalties. Deadlines vary based on whether someone is appealing an impoundment notice or the vehicle impoundment itself.
The board's decisions can ultimately be appealed to Fayette District Court.
When would it take effect?
If approved by Council, the ordinance would take effect January 1, 2027.
Read the full ordinance here and reach out to your Councilmember to share your perspective.