[R.O. 2009 § 340.010; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
No driver of any vehicle other than one on official business shall follow any emergency vehicle traveling in response to an emergency closer than five hundred (500) feet or drive into or park within the block where any fire apparatus has stopped in answer to a fire alarm.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.020; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
No vehicle shall be driven over any unprotected hose of a Fire Department or District when laid down on any street or private driveway to be used at any fire or alarm of fire without the consent of the Fire Department or District official in command.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.030; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
Definitions. As used in this Section, the following terms shall mean:
FUNERAL DIRECTOR
A person licensed as a funeral director pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 333, RSMo.
FUNERAL LEAD VEHICLE or LEAD VEHICLE
Any motor vehicle equipped with at least one (1) lighted circulating lamp exhibiting an amber or purple light or lens or alternating flashing headlamps visible under normal atmospheric conditions for a distance of five hundred (500) feet from the front of the vehicle. A hearse or coach properly equipped may be a lead vehicle.
ORGANIZED FUNERAL PROCESSION
Two (2) or more vehicles accompanying the remains of a deceased person from a funeral establishment, church, synagogue or other place where a funeral service has taken place to a cemetery, crematory or other place of final disposition or a funeral establishment, church, synagogue or other place where additional funeral services will be performed if directed by a licensed funeral director from a licensed establishment.
B. 
Driving Rules.
1. 
Except as otherwise provided for in this Section, pedestrians and operators of all other vehicles shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which is a part of an organized funeral procession.
2. 
Notwithstanding any traffic control device or right-of-way provision prescribed by State or local law, when the funeral lead vehicle in an organized funeral procession lawfully enters an intersection, all vehicles in the procession shall follow the lead vehicle through the intersection. The operator of each vehicle in the procession shall exercise the highest degree of care toward any other vehicle or pedestrian on the roadway.
3. 
An organized funeral procession shall have the right-of-way at all intersections regardless of any traffic control device at such intersections, except that operators of vehicles in an organized funeral procession shall yield the right-of-way to any approaching emergency vehicle pursuant to the provisions of law or when directed to do so by a Law Enforcement Officer.
4. 
All vehicles in an organized funeral procession shall follow the preceding vehicle in the procession as closely as is practical and safe under the conditions.
5. 
No person shall operate any vehicle as part of an organized funeral procession without the flashing emergency lights of such vehicle being lighted.
6. 
Any person who is not an operator of a vehicle in an organized funeral procession shall not:
a. 
Drive between the vehicles comprising an organized funeral procession while such vehicles are in motion and have the flashing emergency lights lighted pursuant to Subsection (B)(5) above, except when required to do so by a Law Enforcement Officer or when such person is operating an emergency vehicle giving an audible or visual signal;
b. 
Join a funeral procession for the purpose of securing the right-of-way; or
c. 
Attempt to pass any vehicle in an organized funeral procession, except where a passing lane has been specifically provided.
7. 
When an organized funeral procession is proceeding through a red signal light as permitted herein, a vehicle not in the organized funeral procession shall not enter the intersection unless such vehicle may do so without crossing the path of the funeral procession.
8. 
No ordinance, regulation, or any other provision of law shall prohibit the use of a motorcycle utilizing flashing amber lights to escort an organized funeral procession on the highway.
C. 
Any person convicted of violating any provision of this Section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00).
[Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
Definitions. For purposes of this Section, the following terms shall mean the following:
PARADE or PROCESSION
Parade means any parade, march, ceremony, show, exhibition, pageant, or procession of any kind, or any similar display, in or upon any street, City park, or other public place in the City, comprising more than six (6) vehicles, or a group of pedestrians more than eight (8) feet in width or more than forty (40) feet in length, under the direction of one (1) or more persons. Except such shall not include funerals, a government acting within the scope of its functions, the forces of the United States Military Branches, the military forces of this State, and the forces of the Police and Fire Departments or Districts.
PARADE PERMIT
A permit as required by this Section.
B. 
Permit Required For Parade Or Procession.[1] It shall be unlawful for any person to conduct or take part in any parade or procession that has not received approval via issuance of a parade permit from the office of the City Clerk.
[1]
Cross Reference: Except as provided for in Chapter 430, Supplemental Uses and Regulations, Article V, Special Events, or exempted by Section 430.440 of that Chapter.
C. 
Fee.
1. 
No parade permit fee shall be charged unless the applicant requests the City provide extraordinary services or equipment, or the City Administrator otherwise determines that extraordinary services or equipment should be provided to protect the public health or safety. The applicant shall pay a deposit of fifty percent (50%) of the anticipated cost of the required extraordinary services or equipment at the time of application, or as soon thereafter as a determination is made by the City, and agree to pay the City for the adjusted actual costs within fifteen (15) calendar days after the conclusion of the parade or procession.
2. 
Applicants shall further agree to reimburse the City for reasonable costs of damage to any City equipment loaned or used for the public safety or convenience.
D. 
Application — Generally.
1. 
Any person desiring to conduct or sponsor a parade or procession in the City shall first make written application for a parade permit on a form to be provided by the City Clerk.
2. 
Application must be filled in completely.
a. 
Requests for a parade permit must be received with enough time for multiple departments to review and provide comments on the same [preferably three (3) weeks prior to the requested activity].
b. 
If the parade or procession is seeking closure of any streets, application for the same must be made at least one (1) month in advance of the event as such request must go before the Board of Aldermen to close public streets.
3. 
The application form shall include the following information:
a. 
The names, addresses, telephone numbers of the headquarters of the organization for which the parade or procession is to be conducted, if any, and the authorized and responsible heads of the organization;
b. 
The name, address, and telephone number of the applicant and persons having control of the parade or procession;
c. 
The place, date, and hours of the parade or procession;
d. 
The purpose of the parade or procession, including a description of activities planned during the event;
e. 
The approximate number of persons, animals, and/or vehicles in the parade or procession and the anticipated number of spectators;
f. 
A diagram showing the staging areas, proposed route, and what portions of the streets or properties may be occupied by such parade or procession;
g. 
A traffic control plan including appropriate barricades, signs, and delineation equipment;
h. 
Description and location of parking provided for participants;
i. 
Provisions for sanitation and cleanup;
j. 
Proof of insurance in accordance with Subsection (E) below; and
k. 
Such other documentation required by the City Clerk to carry out the intent of this Section.
E. 
General Requirements.
1. 
Unless waived or reduced by the Board of Aldermen for good cause shown, each permittee shall be required to provide liability insurance for the event and shall furnish the City a copy of an insurance certificate naming the City as an additional insured.
2. 
The traffic control plan submitted must be approved by the City Traffic Engineer.
3. 
Any barricades, signage, equipment, etc., necessary for traffic control must be properly installed and removed promptly following completion of the parade or procession.
4. 
The City Traffic Engineer, in consultation with the other departments, has the right to change the event route if it is deemed necessary for safety purposes or in order to maintain a smooth vehicular flow of traffic.
F. 
Grounds For Refusal. If the applicant(s) for a parade permit required by this Section fails to give all the information and accompanying documentation required by the application, the application may be refused by the City Clerk.
G. 
Application Forwarded For Investigation. Upon acceptance of an application for a parade permit required by this Section that is duly and properly executed and accompanied by the proper documents and information, the City Clerk shall distribute the application to the Parks Department, Public Works Department, Police Department, and any other Department deemed applicable for investigation of same.
H. 
Investigation Of Application. Upon receipt of a copy of the application for a permit required by this Section, such officials using the information provided by the applicant(s) shall conduct an investigation of the truth and accuracy of the information set out in the application, including, but not limited to, the route sought by applicant(s) and make a recommendation to the City Clerk concerning the advisability of approving such parade permit. Should a Department have further questions or comments to protect the safety of the participants or onlookers and/or traffic flow, each such Department shall convey such remarks with its recommendation to the City Clerk.
I. 
Issuance.
1. 
The City Clerk shall issue a parade permit if there is no danger to the public health, safety, or general welfare of the public.
2. 
To approve an application, the City Clerk shall consider and make the following findings:
a. 
The conduct of the parade will not substantially interrupt the safe and orderly movement of other traffic contiguous to its route.
b. 
The concentration of persons, animals, and vehicles at assembly points of the parade and the parade route will not unduly interfere with proper fire and police protection of, or ambulance service to, areas contiguous to such assembly areas.
c. 
The conduct of the parade is not reasonably likely to cause injury to persons or property, to provoke disorderly conduct or create a disturbance.
d. 
The parade is scheduled to move from its point of origin to its point of termination expeditiously and without unreasonable delays en route.
3. 
The parade permit shall carry the following information:
a. 
Permit number;
b. 
Date issued;
c. 
Name of applicant;
d. 
Description of event, date, time, and place of the parade or procession;
e. 
Map indicating streets/parks/sidewalks of the route;
f. 
Any restrictions which apply in accordance with this Code;
g. 
Insurer, if applicable; and
h. 
That such parade permit shall be valid only for the date issued and during the hours stated on it.
J. 
Notice Of Rejection. If the City Clerk disapproves a parade permit application, he/she shall provide prompt, written notice of the denial.
K. 
Appeal From Denial Of Application. In the event a parade permit is denied under this Section or the applicant is otherwise aggrieved by a decision of the City Clerk, City Traffic Engineer, or City Administrator hereunder, the applicant has the right to appeal such decision from such official pursuant to Chapter 160, Administrative Procedure for Review of Certain Actions.
L. 
Possession Of Parade Permit. The chairman or other person heading or leading such activity shall carry the parade permit upon his/her person during the event.
M. 
Interfering With, Addressing Abusive Language To Participants, Etc. It shall be unlawful for any person to physically interfere with a permitted parade or procession, or with the persons lawfully engaged therein in the use of any street, sidewalk, or other public place, or to address threatening language or other fighting words to or at such participants, which would tend to provoke such participants or others to a breach of the peace.
N. 
Conduct — Generally. It shall be unlawful for any person to conduct or participate in any parade or procession of such character, extent, or duration as to create a public disturbance, to operate as a nuisance, or to tend to create or threaten rioting, disorderly conduct, or public or private mischief.
O. 
Conduct — Abusive, Etc., Language By Participants. It shall be unlawful for any person conducting or participating in any parade or procession to address indecent, abusive, or threatening language or other fighting words to or at any person, which would tend to provoke such person or others to a breach of the peace.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.040; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
Each driver in a funeral or other procession shall drive as near to the right-hand edge of the roadway as practicable and shall follow the vehicle ahead as close as is practicable and safe.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.050; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
The driver of a motor vehicle shall not drive within any sidewalk area except on a permanent or temporary driveway. A designated bicycle lane shall not be obstructed by a parked or standing motor vehicle or other stationary object. A motor vehicle may be driven in a designated bicycle lane only for the purpose of a lawful maneuver to cross the lane or to provide for safe travel. In making an otherwise lawful maneuver that requires traveling in or crossing a designated bicycle lane, the driver of a motor vehicle shall yield to any bicycle in the lane. As used in this Section, the term "designated bicycle lane" shall mean a portion of the roadway or highway that has been designated by the City Traffic Engineer by striping with signing or striping with pavement markings for the preferential or exclusive use of bicycles.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.060; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
The driver of a vehicle shall not back the same unless such movement can be made with reasonable safety and without interfering with other traffic.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.070; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
No person shall open the door of a motor vehicle on the side available to moving traffic unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so, nor shall any person leave a door open on the side of a motor vehicle available to moving traffic for a period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.080; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
A person operating a motorcycle shall ride only upon the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, and such operator shall not carry any other person nor shall any other person ride on a motorcycle unless such motorcycle is designed to carry more than one (1) person, in which event a passenger may ride upon the permanent and regular seat if designed for two (2) persons or upon another seat firmly attached to the rear or side of the operator.
B. 
The operator of a motorized bicycle shall ride only astride the permanent and regular seat attached thereto and shall not permit more than one (1) person to ride thereon at the same time, unless the motorized bicycle is designed to carry more than one (1) person. Any motorized bicycle designed to carry more than one (1) person must be equipped with a passenger seat and footrests for the use of a passenger.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.100; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle upon any streets of this City, except as follows:
1. 
All-terrain vehicles owned and operated by a governmental entity for official use;
2. 
All-terrain vehicles operated for agricultural purposes or industrial on-premises purposes between the official sunrise and sunset on the day of operation;
3. 
All-terrain vehicles operated by handicapped persons for short distances occasionally only on the State's secondary roads when operated between the hours of sunrise and sunset.
B. 
No person shall operate an off-road vehicle, as defined in Section 304.001, RSMo., within any stream or river in this City, except that off-road vehicles may be operated within waterways which flow within the boundaries of land which an off-road vehicle operator owns, or for agricultural purposes within the boundaries of land which an off-road vehicle operator owns or has permission to be upon.
C. 
A person operating an all-terrain vehicle on a street or highway pursuant to an exception covered in this Section shall have a valid license issued by a State authorizing such person to operate a motor vehicle but shall not be required to have passed an examination for the operation of a motorcycle, and the vehicle shall be operated at speeds of less than thirty (30) miles per hour. When operated on a street or highway, an all-terrain vehicle shall have a bicycle safety flag, which extends not less than seven (7) feet above the ground, attached to the rear of the vehicle. The bicycle safety flag shall be triangular in shape with an area of not less than thirty (30) square inches and shall be dayglow in color.
D. 
No person shall operate an all-terrain vehicle:
1. 
In any careless way so as to endanger the person or property of another;
2. 
While under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance; or
3. 
Without a securely fastened safety helmet on the head of an individual who operates an all-terrain vehicle or who is being towed or otherwise propelled by an all-terrain vehicle, unless the individual is at least eighteen (18) years of age.
E. 
No operator of an all-terrain vehicle shall carry a passenger, except for agricultural purposes.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.120; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
No person shall drive a vehicle onto or from any controlled access roadway except at such entrances and exits as are established by public authority.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.140; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
Every person operating a motor vehicle on the highways of this City shall drive the vehicle in a careful and prudent manner and at a rate of speed so as not to endanger the property of another or the life or limb of any person and shall exercise the highest degree of care.
[Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
All vehicles not in motion shall be placed with their right side as near the right-hand side of the highway as practicable, except on streets of the City where vehicles are obliged to move in one (1) direction only or parking of motor vehicles is regulated by ordinance or traffic control device.
B. 
Upon all public roads or highways of sufficient width, a vehicle shall be driven upon the right-half of the roadway, except as follows:
1. 
When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction pursuant to the rules governing such movement;
2. 
When placing a vehicle in position for and when such vehicle is lawfully making a left turn in compliance with the provisions of this Title;
3. 
When the right-half of a roadway is closed to traffic while under construction or repair;
4. 
Upon a roadway designated by local ordinance as a one-way street and marked or signed for one-way traffic.
C. 
It is unlawful to drive any vehicle upon any highway or road which has been divided into two (2) or more roadways by means of a physical barrier or by means of a dividing section or delineated by curbs, lines or other markings on the roadway except to the right of such barrier or dividing section or to make any left turn or semicircular or U-turn on any such divided highway, except at an intersection or interchange or at any signed location designated by the State Highways and Transportation Commission or the Department of Transportation. The provisions of this Subsection shall not apply to emergency vehicles, law enforcement vehicles or to vehicles owned by the Commission or the Department.
D. 
Whenever any roadway has been divided into three (3) or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, the following rules in addition to all other consistent herewith shall apply:
1. 
A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from such lane until the driver has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety.
2. 
Upon a roadway which is divided into three (3) lanes, a vehicle shall not be driven in the center lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle where the roadway ahead is clearly visible and such center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance, or in preparation for a left turn, or where such center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the direction the vehicle is proceeding and is signposted to give notice of such allocation.
3. 
Upon all highways any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic thereon shall be driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb, except as otherwise provided in Sections 304.014 to 304.026, RSMo.
4. 
Official signs may be erected by the State Highways and Transportation Commission, or the Highway Patrol may place temporary signs directing slow-moving traffic to use a designated lane or allocating specified lanes to traffic moving in the same direction, and drivers of vehicles shall obey the directions of every such sign.
5. 
Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to the right and, except when a roadway has been divided into traffic lanes, each driver shall give to the other at least one-half (1/2) of the main traveled portion of the roadway whenever possible.
E. 
All vehicles in motion upon a highway having two (2) or more lanes of traffic proceeding in the same direction shall be driven in the right-hand lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle or when preparing to make a proper left turn or when otherwise directed by traffic markings, signs or signals.
F. 
All trucks registered for a gross weight of more than forty-eight thousand (48,000) pounds shall not be driven in the far left-hand lane upon all interstate highways, freeways, or expressways within urbanized areas of the State having three (3) or more lanes of traffic proceeding in the same direction. This restriction shall not apply when:
1. 
It is necessary for the operator of the truck to follow traffic control devices that direct use of a lane other than the right lane; or
2. 
The right-half of a roadway is closed to traffic while under construction or repair.
G. 
As used in Subsection (F) of this Section, "truck" means any vehicle, machine, tractor, trailer, or semitrailer, or any combination thereof, propelled or drawn by mechanical power and designed for or used in the transportation of property upon the highways. The term "truck" also includes a commercial motor vehicle as defined in Section 300.010 of this Title.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.170; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction, subject to the limitations and exceptions hereinafter stated:
1. 
The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle; and
2. 
Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle and shall not increase the speed of such driver's vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
B. 
The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass to the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:
1. 
When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn;
2. 
Upon a City street with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two (2) or more lanes of vehicles in each direction; or
3. 
Upon a one-way street.
The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right only under the foregoing conditions when such movement may be made in safety. In no event shall such movement be made by driving off the paved or main traveled portion of the roadway. The provisions of this Subsection shall not relieve the driver of a slow-moving vehicle from the duty to drive as closely as practicable to the right-hand edge of the roadway.
C. 
Except when a roadway has been divided into three (3) traffic lanes, no vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the centerline of a highway or public road in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction or any vehicle overtaken.
D. 
No vehicle shall at any time be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:
1. 
When approaching the crest of a grade or upon a curve of the highway where the driver's view is obstructed within such distance as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle might approach from the opposite direction.
2. 
When the view is obstructed upon approaching within one hundred (100) feet of any bridge, viaduct, tunnel or when approaching within one hundred (100) feet of or at any intersection or railroad grade crossing.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.180; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
No person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of or turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety and then only after the giving of an appropriate signal in the manner provided herein.
1. 
An operator or driver when stopping, or when checking the speed of the operator's vehicle if the movement of other vehicles may reasonably be affected by such checking of speed, shall extend such operator's arm at an angle below horizontal so that the same may be seen in the rear of the vehicle.
2. 
An operator or driver intending to turn the vehicle to the right shall extend such operator's arm at an angle above horizontal so that the same may be seen in front of and in the rear of the vehicle and shall slow down and approach the intersecting highway as near as practicable to the right side of the highway along which such operator is proceeding before turning.
3. 
An operator or driver intending to turn the vehicle to the left shall extend such operator's arm in a horizontal position so that the same may be seen in the rear of the vehicle and shall slow down and approach the intersecting highway so that the left side of the vehicle shall be as near as practicable to the centerline of the highway along which the operator is proceeding before turning.
4. 
The signals herein required shall be given either by means of the hand and arm or by a signal light or signal device in good mechanical condition of a type approved by the State Highway Patrol; however, when a vehicle is so constructed or loaded that a hand and arm signal would not be visible both to the front and rear of such vehicle, then such signals shall be given by such light or device. A vehicle shall be considered as so constructed or loaded that a hand and arm signal would not be visible both to the front and rear when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the left outside limit of the body, cab or load exceeds twenty-four (24) inches, or when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the rear limit of the body or load thereon exceeds fourteen (14) feet, which limit of fourteen (14) feet shall apply to single vehicles or combinations of vehicles. The provisions of this Subsection shall not apply to any trailer which does not interfere with a clear view of the hand signals of the operator or of the signaling device upon the vehicle pulling such trailer; provided further, that the provisions of this Section as far as mechanical devices on vehicles so constructed that a hand and arm signal would not be visible both to the front and rear of such vehicle as above provided shall only be applicable to new vehicles registered within this State after the 1st day of January, 1954.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.190; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
The driver of a vehicle upon a highway upon meeting or overtaking from either direction any school bus which has stopped on the highway for the purpose of receiving or discharging any school children and whose driver has in the manner prescribed by law given the signal to stop shall stop the vehicle before reaching such school bus and shall not proceed until such school bus resumes motion or until signaled by its driver to proceed.
B. 
Every bus used for the transportation of school children shall bear upon the front and rear thereon a plainly visible sign containing the words "School Bus" in letters not less than eight (8) inches in height. Each bus shall have lettered on the rear in plain and distinct type the following: "State Law: Stop While Bus is Loading and Unloading." Each school bus subject to the provisions of Sections 304.050 to 304.070, RSMo., shall be equipped with a mechanical and electrical signaling device approved by the State Board of Education which will display a signal plainly visible from the front and rear and indicating intention to stop.
C. 
Every school bus operated to transport students in the public school system which has a gross vehicle weight rating of more than ten thousand (10,000) pounds, which has the engine mounted entirely in front of the windshield and the entrance door behind the front wheels, and which is used for the transportation of school children shall be equipped with a crossing control arm. The crossing control arm, when activated, shall extend a minimum of five (5) feet six (6) inches from the face of the front bumper. The crossing control arm shall be attached on the right side of the front bumper and shall be activated by the same controls which activate the mechanical and electrical signaling devices described in Subsection (B) of this Section. This Subsection may be cited as "Jessica's Law" in commemoration of Jessica Leicht and all other Missouri school children who have been injured or killed during the operation of a school bus.
D. 
Except as otherwise provided in this Section, the driver of a school bus in the process of loading or unloading students upon a street or highway shall activate the mechanical and electrical signaling devices, in the manner prescribed by the State Board of Education, to communicate to drivers of other vehicles that students are loading or unloading. A public school district has the authority pursuant to Section 304.050, RSMo., to adopt a policy which provides that the driver of a school bus in the process of loading or unloading students upon a divided highway of four (4) or more lanes may pull off of the main roadway and load or unload students without activating the mechanical and electrical signaling devices in a manner which gives the signal for other drivers to stop and may use the amber signaling devices to alert motorists that the school bus is slowing to a stop; provided that the passengers are not required to cross any traffic lanes and also provided that the emergency flashing signal lights are activated in a manner which indicates that drivers should proceed with caution and, in such case, the driver of a vehicle may proceed past the school bus with due caution. No driver of a school bus shall take on or discharge passengers at any location upon a highway consisting of four (4) or more lanes of traffic, whether or not divided by a median or barrier, in such manner as to require the passengers to cross more than two (2) lanes of traffic; nor shall any passengers be taken on or discharged while the vehicle is upon the road or highway proper unless the vehicle so stopped is plainly visible for at least five hundred (500) feet in each direction to drivers of other vehicles in the case of a highway with no shoulder and a speed limit greater than sixty (60) miles per hour and at least three hundred (300) feet in each direction to drivers of other vehicles upon other highways, and on all highways, only for such time as is actually necessary to take on and discharge passengers.
E. 
The driver of a vehicle upon a highway with separate roadways need not stop upon meeting or overtaking a school bus which is on a different roadway, which is proceeding in the opposite direction on a highway containing four (4) or more lanes of traffic, or which is stopped in a loading zone constituting a part of, or adjacent to, a limited or controlled access highway at a point where pedestrians are not permitted to cross the roadway.
[Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle which has entered the intersection from a different highway; provided, however, there is no form of traffic control at such intersection.
B. 
When two (2) vehicles enter an intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the driver of the vehicle on the right. This Subsection shall not apply to vehicles approaching each other from opposite directions when the driver of one (1) of such vehicles is attempting to or is making a left turn.
C. 
The driver of a vehicle within an intersection intending to turn to the left shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is within the intersection or so close thereto as to constitute an immediate hazard.
D. 
The driver of a vehicle intending to make a left turn into an alley, private road, or driveway shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction when the making of such left turn would create a traffic hazard.
E. 
Preferential right-of-way at an intersection may be indicated by stop signs or yield signs as authorized in Section 304.351, RSMo.:
1. 
Except when directed to proceed by a Police Officer or traffic-control signal, every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop intersection indicated by a stop sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic in the intersecting roadway before entering the intersection. After having stopped, the driver shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from another highway or which is approaching so closely on the highway as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time when such driver is moving across or within the intersection.
2. 
The driver of a vehicle approaching a yield sign shall in obedience to the sign slow down to a speed reasonable to the existing conditions and, if required for safety to stop, shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway. After slowing or stopping the driver shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another highway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time such traffic is moving across or within the intersection.
F. 
The driver of a vehicle about to enter or cross a highway from an alley, building or any private road or driveway shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the highway to be entered.
G. 
The City Traffic Engineer may, on any section of road where construction or major maintenance operations are being affected, fix a speed limit in such areas by posting of appropriate signs, and the operation of a motor vehicle in excess of such speed limit in the area so posted shall be deemed prima facie evidence of careless and imprudent driving and a violation of Section 340.160.
[1]
State Law Reference: This Section has additional penalties based on certain circumstances, § 304.351, RSMo.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.210; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
The driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonably safe and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon and the condition of the roadway. Vehicles being driven upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district in a caravan or motorcade, whether or not towing other vehicles, shall be so operated, except in a funeral procession or in a duly authorized parade, so as to allow sufficient space between each such vehicle or combination of vehicles as to enable any other vehicle to overtake or pass such vehicles in safety. This Section shall in no manner affect Section 304.044, RSMo., relating to distance between trucks traveling on the highway.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.220; R.O. 2006 § 340.210; Ord. No. 497 § 132, 6-26-1979; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
Every person operating a motor vehicle on parking lots, drive-ins and private ways shall drive the same in a careful and prudent manner and shall exercise ordinary care, and at a rate of speed not in excess of fifteen (15) miles per hour, unless otherwise posted, and at such less speeds when required so as not to endanger the property of another or the life or limb of any person, taking into consideration the amount of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, the visibility and atmospheric conditions, and the conditions of the pavement.
B. 
Any and all ordinances of the City applicable to motor vehicles on public streets with respect to signaling, lights, backing, turning, and sounding of horns shall apply to vehicles operated in parking lots, drive-ins and private ways.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.240; R.O. 2006 § 340.260; Ord. No. 497 § 127, 6-26-1979; Ord. No. 1915 § 17, 11-20-1995; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
It shall be unlawful for any person who has purposely, accidentally, or by reason of an accident, dropped from his/her person or any vehicle, any tacks, nails, wire, scrap metal, glass, crockery, sharp stones, or other substances injurious to the feet of persons or animals, or to the tires or wheels of vehicles, including motor vehicles, upon any highway to refuse or fail to make all reasonable efforts to clear the highway of the substances.
B. 
No person shall throw or place, or cause to be thrown or placed, any glass, bottles, wire, nails, tacks, hedge, cans, garbage, paper, trash, refuse, or rubbish of any kind, nature, or description on the right-of-way of any public street, road, or highway within the City.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.250; R.O. 2006 § 340.310; Ord. No. 1355 § 1, 2-19-1990; Ord. No. 2296 § 2, 2-24-2000; Ord. No. 2463 § 3, 4-15-2002; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
No person shall drive any motor vehicle upon or across any sidewalk, driveway, curb, parking lot of any private or public property, or any other area that is not a road for the purpose of evading or avoiding an intersection, congested area, or traffic device.
B. 
Any person convicted of violating this Section will be punished as set out in Section 100.120 of this Code.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.260; R.O. 2006 § 340.350; Ord. No. 2286 § 1, 12-20-1999; Ord. No. 2463 § 3, 4-15-2002; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
It shall be unlawful for the operator of any motor vehicle to intentionally harass or alarm another person who is inside a motor vehicle by intentionally or knowingly:
1. 
Increasing or decreasing the speed of his/her vehicle;
2. 
Changing lanes;
3. 
Following the other person's vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent under the totality of the circumstances;
4. 
Impeding or obstructing the operation of the other person's motor vehicle; or
5. 
Operating his/her vehicle in a manner that endangers or would be likely to endanger any person or property.
B. 
Any person convicted of violating this Section will be punished as set out in Section 100.120 of this Code.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.270; R.O. 2006 § 340.360; Ord. No. 2296 § 3, 2-24-2000; Ord. No. 2463 § 3, 4-15-2002; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
No person shall operate a vehicle, trailer or combination thereof, licensed in excess of the weight limits posted upon any of the bridges including but not limited to as set forth and described in Schedule XX.
B. 
Any person convicted of violating this Section will be punished as set out in Section 100.120 of this Code.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.280; R.O. 2006 § 365.060; Ord. No. 1228 § 1, 4-19-1989; Ord. No. 3300 § 1, 12-20-2012; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
Definitions. For purposes of this Section, "commercial vehicle" means any motor vehicle or trailer which is designed, maintained, or used primarily for the transportation of property or which is used primarily for the transportation of passengers for hire, including, but not limited to, tow trucks, dump trucks, flat-bed trucks, stake-bed trucks, step vans, refuse or garbage trucks, buses, or any other vehicle or trailer having a gross vehicle weight rating (GRWR) in excess of fourteen thousand (14,000) pounds.
B. 
Regulations. Except as provided in Subsection (C) hereof, no person shall operate, and it shall be unlawful to operate, a commercial vehicle on, over, or upon any of the streets or parts thereof including but not limited to those set forth and described in Schedule XII enacted herewith or as amended.
C. 
Exceptions. This Section shall not apply to any emergency vehicles, ambulances, public utility service vehicles or commercial vehicles while in the process of making a legitimate pickup, delivery, or call to a business or residence located on a street including but not limited to as set forth and described in Schedule XII, provided the operator is traveling to or from the pickup, delivery, or call over the restricted streets by the most direct available route to and from a non-restricted thoroughfare.
D. 
Miscellaneous.
1. 
The City Traffic Engineer shall cause signs to be erected at the entrance to any street or streets set forth and described in Schedule XII from any non-regulated thoroughfare advising that commercial vehicular traffic is restricted. The failure of any street to be so posted shall not relieve any operator of liability for a violation of this Section.
2. 
Failure of an operator of a commercial vehicle on one (1) of the streets set forth and described in Schedule XII to disclose to a Police Officer an address on such restricted street to which a pickup, delivery or call has or will be made by that operator shall be prima-facie proof that the exceptions set forth in Subsection (C) hereof shall not apply to that operator.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.290; R.O. 2006 § 365.070; Ord. No. 1294 § 1, 8-21-1989; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
No person shall operate a vehicle licensed in excess of eighteen thousand (18,000) pounds, except as provided under Section 340.270, upon any of the streets or parts of streets including but not limited to as set forth and described in Schedule XIX.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Section 340.290, Vehicles Prohibited From Using Streets Designated For Local Traffic Only, was repealed 11-16-2023, by Ord. No. 4386. Prior history includes: R.O. 2009 § 340.300; R.O. 2006 § 365.090; and Ord. No. 933.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.310; R.O. 2006 § 365.100; Ord. No. 1172 § 1, 11-21-1988; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
When the proper signs are erected prohibiting such travel, no person shall operate any motor vehicle directly between the locations including but not limited to as set forth and described in Schedule XVIII at specified times.
[R.O. 2009 § 340.320; Ord. No. 1917 § 2, 11-20-1995; Ord. No. 2422 § 2, 9-17-2001; Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
Upon conviction or a plea of guilty by any person for a moving violation as defined in Section 302.010, RSMo., or any offense listed in Section 302.302, RSMo., the Fenton Municipal Court shall assess a fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) in addition to any other fine authorized to be imposed by law, if the offense occurred within a construction zone or a work zone as defined in Section 300.010 of this Code.
[Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
Definitions. As used in this Section, the following terms shall have the meanings set out herein:
ACTIVE EMERGENCY
Any incident occurring on a highway, as the term "highway" is defined in Section 302.010, RSMo., that requires emergency services from any emergency responder.
ACTIVE EMERGENCY ZONE
Any area upon or around any highway, which is visibly marked by emergency responders performing work for the purpose of emergency response, and where an active emergency, or incident removal, is temporarily occurring. This area includes the lanes of highway leading up to an active emergency or incident removal, beginning within three hundred (300) feet of visual sighting of:
a. 
Appropriate signs or traffic control devices posted or placed by emergency responders; or
b. 
An emergency vehicle displaying active emergency lights or signals.
EMERGENCY RESPONDER
Any Law Enforcement Officer, paid or volunteer firefighter, first responder, emergency medical worker, tow truck operator, or other emergency personnel responding to an emergency on a highway.
B. 
Offense Of Endangerment Of An Emergency Responder, Elements.
1. 
A person commits the offense of endangerment of an emergency responder for any of the following offenses when the offense occurs within an active emergency zone:
a. 
Exceeding the posted speed limit by fifteen (15) miles per hour or more;
b. 
Passing in violation of Subsection (C)(3) of this Section;
c. 
Failure to stop for an active emergency zone flagman or emergency responder, or failure to obey traffic control devices erected, or personnel posted, in the active emergency zone for purposes of controlling the flow of motor vehicles through the zone;
d. 
Driving through or around an active emergency zone via any lane not clearly designated for motorists to control the flow of traffic through or around the active emergency zone;
e. 
Physically assaulting, attempting to assault, or threatening to assault an emergency responder with a motor vehicle or other instrument; or
f. 
Intentionally striking, moving, or altering barrels, barriers, signs, or other devices erected to control the flow of traffic to protect emergency responders and motorists unless the action was necessary to avoid an obstacle, an emergency, or to protect the health and safety of an occupant of the motor vehicle or of another person.
2. 
Except for the offense established under Subsection (B)(1)(f) of this Section, no person shall be deemed to have committed the offense of endangerment of an emergency responder except when the act or omission constituting the offense occurred when one (1) or more emergency responders were responding to an active emergency.
3. 
No person shall be cited for, or found guilty of, endangerment of an emergency responder or aggravated endangerment of an emergency responder, for any act or omission otherwise constituting an offense under Subsection (B)(1) of this Section, if such act or omission resulted in whole or in part from mechanical failure of the person's vehicle, or from the negligence of another person or emergency responder.
C. 
Violations, Penalties.
1. 
Upon the first conviction, finding of guilt or plea of guilty by any person for a moving violation, as the term moving violation is defined in Section 302.010, RSMo., or any offense listed in Section 302.302, RSMo., other than a violation described in Subsection (C)(2) of this Section, when the violation or offense occurs within an active emergency zone, the court shall assess a fine of thirty-five dollars ($35.00) in addition to any other fine authorized by law. Upon a second or subsequent conviction, finding of guilt, or plea of guilty, the court shall assess a fine of seventy-five dollars ($75.00) in addition to any other fine authorized by law.
2. 
Upon the first conviction, finding of guilt or plea of guilty by any person for a speeding violation under either Section 304.009 or 304.010, RSMo., or Chapter 320 of this Code, or a passing violation under Subsection (C)(3) of this Section, when the violation or offense occurs within an active emergency zone and emergency responders were present in such zone at the time of the offense or violation, the court shall assess a fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) in addition to any other fine authorized by law. Upon a second or subsequent conviction, finding of guilt or plea of guilty, the court shall assess a fine of three hundred dollars ($300.00) in addition to any other fine authorized by law. However, no person assessed an additional fine under this Subsection shall also be assessed an additional fine under Subsection on (C)(1) of this Section.
3. 
The driver of a motor vehicle shall not overtake or pass another motor vehicle within an active emergency zone.
4. 
The additional fines imposed by this Section shall not be construed to enhance the assessment of court costs.
[Ord. No. 4392, 12-14-2023]
A. 
Definitions. As used in this Section, the following terms shall have the meanings set out herein:
COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE
A motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property:
a. 
If the vehicle has a gross combination weight rating or gross combination weight of twenty-six thousand one (2,601) or more pounds, whichever is greater, inclusive of a towed unit which has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than ten thousand (10,000) pounds, whichever is greater;
b. 
If the vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of twenty-six thousand one (2,601) or more pounds, whichever is greater;
c. 
If the vehicle is designed to transport sixteen (16) or more passengers, including the driver; or
d. 
If the vehicle is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (46 U.S.C. Section 1801, et seq.).
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICE
A portable device that is used to initiate, receive, store, or view communication, information, images, or data electronically.
a. 
Such term, shall include, but not be limited to: cellular telephones; portable telephones; text-messaging devices; personal digital assistants; pagers; broadband personal communication devices; electronic devices with mobile data access; computers, including but not limited to tablets, laptops, notebook computers, and electronic or video game systems; devices capable of transmitting, retrieving, or displaying a video, movie, broadcast television image, or visual image; and any substantially similar device that is used to initiate or receive communication or store and review information, videos, images, or data;
b. 
Such term shall not include: radios; citizens band radios; commercial two-way radio communication devices or their functional equivalent; subscription-based emergency communication devices; prescribed medical devices; amateur or ham radio devices; or global positioning system receivers, security, navigation, communication, or remote diagnostics systems permanently affixed to the vehicle.
HIGHWAY
Any public thoroughfare for vehicles, including State roads, County roads and public streets, avenues, boulevards, parkways, or alleys in any municipality.
NON-COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE
A motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles not defined by the term commercial motor vehicle in this Section.
OPERATING
The actual physical control of a vehicle.
OPERATOR
A person who is in actual physical control.
SCHOOL BUS
A commercial motor vehicle used to transport preprimary, primary, or secondary school students from home to school, from school to home, or to and from school-sponsored events. School bus does not include a bus used as a common carrier as defined by the Secretary of Transportation of the United States.
VOICE-OPERATED OR HANDS-FREE FEATURE OR FUNCTION
A feature or function, whether internally installed or externally attached or connected to an electronic communication device, that allows a person to use an electronic communication device without the use of either hand, except to activate, deactivate, or initiate the feature or function with a single touch or single swipe.
B. 
Except as otherwise provided in this Section, while operating a non-commercial motor vehicle or commercial motor vehicle on any highway or property open to the public for vehicular traffic in this City, no operator shall:
1. 
Physically hold or support, with any part of his or her body, an electronic communication device;
2. 
Write, send, or read any text-based communication, including but not limited to a text message, instant message, email, or social media interaction on an electronic communication device. This Subdivision shall not apply to operators of a non-commercial motor vehicle using a voice-operated or hands-free feature or function that converts the message to be sent as a message in a written form, provided that the operator does not divert his or her attention from lawful operation of the vehicle;
3. 
Make any communication on an electronic communication device, including a phone call, voice message, or one-way voice communication; provided, however, that this prohibition shall not apply to use of a voice-operated or hands-free feature or function;
4. 
Engage in any form of electronic data retrieval or electronic data communication on an electronic communication device;
5. 
Manually enter letters, numbers, or symbols into any website, search engine, or application on an electronic communication device;
6. 
Watch a video or movie on an electronic communication device, other than watching data related to the navigation of the vehicle; or
7. 
Record, post, send, or broadcast video, including a video conference, on an electronic communication device; provided that this prohibition shall not apply to electronic devices used for the sole purpose of continually monitoring operator behavior by recording or broadcasting video within or outside the vehicle.
C. 
The operator of a school bus shall not use or operate an electronic communication device while the school bus is in motion unless the device is being used in a similar manner as a two-way radio to allow live communication between the operator and school officials or public safety officials. The operator of a school bus shall not use or operate an electronic communication device or a two-way radio while loading or unloading passengers.
D. 
This Section shall not apply to:
1. 
Law Enforcement Officers or operators of emergency vehicles, as such term is defined in Section 304.022, RSMo., who are both using the electronic communication device and operating the emergency vehicle in the performance of their official duties;
2. 
Operators using an electronic communication device for the sole purpose of reporting an emergency situation and continuing communication with emergency personnel during the emergency situation;
3. 
Operators of non-commercial motor vehicles using an electronic communication device solely through a voice-operated or hands-free feature or function;
4. 
Operators of commercial motor vehicles using a voice-operated or hands-free feature or function, as long as the operator remains seated and is restrained by a seat belt as required by law;
5. 
Operators of commercial motor vehicles reading a message displayed on a permanently installed communication device designed for a commercial motor vehicle with a screen that does not exceed ten (10) inches tall by ten (10) inches wide in size;
6. 
Operators using electronic communication devices while the vehicle is lawfully stopped or parked;
7. 
Commercial motor vehicles that are responding to a request for roadside assistance, when such response is conducted by a motor club as defined in Section 385.450, RSMo., or a towing company as defined in Section 304.001, RSMo.;
8. 
The use of an electronic communication device to relay information between a transit or for-hire vehicle operator and that operator's dispatcher, provided the device is mounted or affixed to the vehicle;
9. 
The use of an electronic communication device to access or view a map for navigational purposes;
10. 
The use of an electronic communication device to access or listen to an audio broadcast or digital audio recording; or
11. 
The use of an electronic communication device to relay information through a transportation network company's digital network to a transportation network company driver, provided the device is mounted or affixed to the vehicle.
E. 
Penalties for violations of this Section shall be as provided in this Subsection.
1. 
For a conviction under this Section where there is no prior conviction under this Section within the preceding twenty-four (24) months, the court shall impose a fine of up to one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
2. 
For a conviction under this Section where there is one (1) prior conviction under this Section within the preceding twenty-four (24) months, the court shall impose a fine of up to two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00).
3. 
For a conviction under this Section where there are two (2) or more prior convictions under this Section in the preceding twenty-four (24) months, the court shall impose a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500.00).
4. 
For a conviction under this Section where the violation occurred in a work zone when workers are present, or for a conviction under this Section where the violation occurred in an area designated as a school zone and marked in any way that would alert a reasonably prudent operator to the presence of the school zone, the court shall impose a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500.00).
5. 
A violation of this Section while operating a commercial motor vehicle shall be deemed a serious traffic violation for purposes of a commercial driver's license disqualification.
F. 
A Law Enforcement Officer who stops a non-commercial motor vehicle for a violation of this Section shall inform the operator of the operator's right to decline a search of their electronic communication device. No warrant shall be issued to confiscate or access an electronic communication device based on a violation of this Section unless the violation results in serious bodily injury or death.
G. 
A violation of this Section shall not be used to establish probable cause for any other violation.
H. 
The provisions of this Section shall be subject to the reporting requirements set forth in Section 590.650, RSMo.
I. 
Prior to January 1, 2025, a Law Enforcement Officer who stops a non-commercial motor vehicle for a violation of this Section shall not issue a citation for a violation of this Section and shall only issue a warning.
J. 
No person shall be stopped, inspected, or detained solely for a violation of this Section.
[Ord. No. 4537, 3-27-2025]
A. 
This section shall be known and may be cited as "Valentine' s Law."
B. 
A person commits the offense of aggravated fleeing a stop or detention of a motor vehicle if he or she knows or reasonably should know that a law enforcement officer is attempting to detain or stop a motor vehicle, and for the purpose of preventing the officer from effecting the stop or detention, he or she flees and:
1. 
Such person operates a motor vehicle at a high speed or in any manner which creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury or death to any person;
2. 
As a result of such flight causes physical injury to another person; or
3. 
As a result of such flight causes death to another person.
C. 
A person is presumed to be fleeing a vehicle stop or detention if he or she continues to operate a motor vehicle after he or she has seen or reasonably should have seen clearly visible emergency lights or has heard or reasonably should have heard an audible signal emanating from the law enforcement vehicle pursuing him or her.
D. 
It is no defense to a prosecution pursuant to subsection (B) of this section that the law enforcement officer was acting unlawfully in making the arrest. However, nothing in this section shall be construed to bar civil suits for unlawful arrest. A person need not know the basis for the arrest, detention, or stop, only that the person was being stopped or detained.
E. 
Penalty of this section is pursuant to Section 575.151, RSMo., or Section 100.120 of this Code.