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ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE SPECIAL ORDER Effective Date: February 8, 2025  Amends - SO 99.0 ( March 2, 2017 ) Number: 99.0 Distribution: All Aviation Section Personnel Review Month: April Reviewing Authority: SOD / Aviation Subject: Aviation Section Utility Vehicles This order consists of the following: 1. Purpose 2. Procedure 1. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and procedures for the operation of the Aviation Section utility vehicles. 2. Procedures A. The utility vehicles are primarily used as aircraft tugs to move both fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft in and around the Sheriff’s hangar s and ramp s. B. All requests for the utility vehicles to be used off the airport property require the approval of the Aviation Section Commander or designee. C. The utility vehicles will be fueled and maintained by Aviation Section personnel in conjunction with Fleet Maintenance and a manufac turer authorized service center. The Aviation Section will confirm that the vehicles are maintained, cleaned, and serviced according to manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations. D. Authorized Utilization Aviation Section personnel are authorized to utilize the utility vehicles if th e below listed standards are complied with : 1. Must be a full -time or part -time member of the Aviation Section. 2. Must have received training in the proper operation of utility vehicles. E. Usage Limitations and Conditions 1. The utility vehicles will be parked with the parking brake engaged. 2. The utility vehicles will be used as an aircraft tug to move fixed wing aircraft and helicopters while on transporters . 3. The utility vehicles may be used to transport members of the Aviation Section and authorized persons accompanying the Aviation Section members around airport property. 4. The utility vehicles may be utilized to assist with landscape operations and transporting small equipment with the approval of an Aviation Section 99.0, Page 2 of 2 supervisor. 5. The utility vehicles are multi -purpose vehicles capable of performing a myriad of tasks, and as su ch may be used for other tasks not previously mentioned in this order with the approval of an Aviation Section supervisor . F. Operation of Utility Vehicle 1. Aviation Section personnel operating the utility vehicles shall adhere to all warning and caution p lacards posted in the utility vehicles at all times. 2. A walk around inspection shall be conducted prior to use , looking for coolant or oil leaks, general vehicle and tire condition and oil level. 3. The utility vehicles will not be operated on highways or public roads , unless approved by an Aviation Section supervisor . 4. Never operate the utility vehicle while standing. 5. Never operate the utility vehicle with the cargo box raised. 6. Do not leave the utility vehicle unattended while it is running. 7. Be careful of vehicular and aircraft traffic while operating on airport property and around taxiways. Always stay we ll clear of active runways. 8. Do not misuse the utility vehicle ; it is not designed for recreational riding. 9. Drive very slowly while turning. Sharp turns could cause the utility vehicle to tip over. 10. Do not make any unauthorized modifications to the utility vehicle . G. Utility Vehicle Inspection The Aviation Section Maintenance Manager or designee shall conduct monthly inspections of the utility vehicles to determine their operational readiness and condition.