MEDIA FACTSHEET
EXEMPTION ORDER FOR BATTERY-OPERATED GO-KARTS UNDER THE AMUSEMENT RIDES SAFETY ACT
1 The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has issued an Exemption Order (EO) for battery-operated go-karts under the Amusement Rides Safety Act 2011 (ARSA), effective 2 January 2026. This move stems from a periodical review of existing regulations, ensuring public safety while adapting to the evolving needs of the amusement ride industry.
2 Under the ARSA, all amusement rides[1] – including go-karts of any speed or power – require permits for installation, modification and operation. This regulatory framework has been fundamental in safeguarding public safety at theme parks and carnivals in Singapore.
Exemption Order for Battery-Operated Go-Karts
3 With effect from 2 January 2026, go-karts are exempted from requiring permits under ARSA if they meet the following three (3) criteria:
- Battery-operated go-karts: Powered solely by batteries, rather than petrol or other fuel sources
- Speed limitation: Has a speed limiting device installed that prevents its operating speed from exceeding 6 kilometres per hour (6km/h);
- Safety coverage: Has all mechanical parts (other than the steering wheel, brake pedal and acceleration pedal) and the top part of the tyres covered by its chassis, to prevent the risk of a limb, hair, or apparel of a person sitting in or driving the go-kart getting caught.
Benefits and Impact
4 This regulatory change will benefit businesses operating low-risk rides, enabling them to respond more quickly to market demands while maintaining safety standards.
5 BCA will continue to work with all stakeholders, from ride owners and qualified persons (QPs) to ride managers, to comply with safety standards.
6 For clarification on the Exemption Order for battery operated go-karts, please contact BCA at the following link (https://www2.bca.gov.sg/feedback/).