Island County residents now have the option of making their neighborhoods golf cart friendly.

Commissioners unanimously approved a new ordinance last month permitting the cart zones and named Beverly Beach the unincorporated county’s first approved area.

The five-year-long effort, which includes passage of a state law in 2010, began with South Whidbey resident David Pentz and his use of a golf cart to remain mobile in his community.

After being warned by a sheriff’s deputy against using his cart, Pentz’s friends and neighbors set out to change the law.

“Some of us in the community decided that just didn’t make sense,” said Tom Cahill.

Though Pence lost his long battle with cancer last Thanksgiving, the effort to change the law moved forward.

During the next four years, former state Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen helped pass a bill allowing counties and cities to adopt regulations regarding golf carts.

“I will be casting my vote in memory of David Pentz,” said Price Johnson.

The law requires that 50 percent or more of residents on the roads in question sign a petition to request the golf cart zone. The carts will only be approved in areas with speed limits of 25 mph or less, and carts must meet seatbelt, rear view mirror and signaling requirements, according Public Works Director Bill Oakes.

Drivers must be at least age 16 and have previous driving experience or education. A valid license is not required, but those with a revoked license will not be allow to drive the carts, Oakes said.

Neighborhoods wanting to apply must pay an initial $150 fee, plus $100 per sign designating the area, with a $50 per sign annual fee for maintenance, Oakes said.

The towns of Langley and Coupeville already approved golf cart ordinances under the new law.