La Junta council to consider temporary vehicle rules for Tarantula Fest
The proposed rules would allow golf carts, utility task vehicles and other low-speed vehicles in designated festival areas while barring them from U.S. 350 and state highways 50 and 109.
La Junta City Council is scheduled to consider temporary rules Sept. 21 for golf carts, utility task vehicles, side-by-sides and other approved low-speed vehicles during Tarantula Fest. If approved, the authorization would run from 12:01 a.m. Friday, Sept. 25, through 11:59 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, the council agenda says.
The proposal would allow the vehicles on streets owned and maintained by La Junta and in designated festival areas, including festival grounds and event staging, vendor, parking and support areas. It does not specify the streets, intersections or boundaries where they could operate, the ordinance says.
The vehicles would be barred from U.S. Highway 350, state highways 50 and 109, and other state-controlled roads unless separately authorized. Operators would have to be at least 18, hold a valid driver’s license and carry proof of ownership and insurance. Liability coverage would have to meet Colorado’s legal minimum for vehicles operating on public roads.
The proposed rules would require working brakes and steering, headlights and taillights after sunset, and visible safety markings on public streets. Vehicles could travel no faster than 20 mph or a lower posted limit. Drivers would have to yield to pedestrians, emergency vehicles and parade participants and follow directions from law enforcement, fire personnel, event staff and traffic-control personnel. Reckless driving, racing, stunts, impaired operation and carrying more passengers than the manufacturer’s stated capacity would be prohibited.
The La Junta Police Department and designated city officials would enforce the rules. Violators could be ordered to stop operating and could receive citations or other penalties allowed by law. The ordinance also would make operators responsible for injuries or damage caused by negligent or unlawful operation.
The council passed the measure on first reading by a 5-0 vote Sept. 8, with two members absent, the meeting minutes show. The Sept. 21 meeting is scheduled for the second reading and possible final action. If approved, the authorization would expire at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 26 unless the council extends it.