Golf Cart Communities
At the request of homeowners associations and property owners, Pinellas County has created zones in areas of the unincorporated county where golf carts are permitted on certain roadways. Links to maps showing the boundaries for the approved zones and answers to the most frequently asked questions pertaining to golf cart zones are below.
Golf Cart Community Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I drive my golf cart?
Golf carts may operate on roadways within the adopted boundaries, as depicted in the maps linked above, and where signage has been posted to alert the public and law enforcement of the boundaries where golf carts are permitted.
What are the rules for operating a golf cart?
- Golf carts may only be operated by a person possessing a valid driver’s license.
- Golf carts must be incapable of exceeding 20 mph.
- Golf carts must be equipped with the following for use during any hour:
- efficient brakes
- reliable steering apparatus
- safe tires
- a rearview mirror
- red reflectorized warning devices in both the front and rear
- If operated during the hours between sunset and sunrise, golf carts must be equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield.
- In addition to obeying all traffic laws, golf carts must yield to other vehicular traffic in all cases.
Are seat belts required on a golf cart?
Although advisable, golf carts are not required to have seat belts or child restraints when operated in designated unincorporated areas of the Pinellas County.
Can I receive a traffic ticket in a golf cart?
Yes, traffic laws apply to golf carts in much the same way as they do to automobiles. For example, you can get the same driving under the influence (DUI) citation under Section 316.193, Fla. Stat. The golf cart driver also can be cited for other traffic violations, such as running a stop sign or failure to yield, etc. These citations can result in fines and points against your license.
Do the same traffic rules apply to Low Speed Vehicles/Neighborhood Electric Vehicles?
State law distinguishes between the operation of golf carts and Low Speed Vehicles (LSVs)/Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs). Golf carts are only street legal within designated golf cart zones, while LSV/NEVs are street legal on all Pinellas County roads where the posted speed limit is 35mph or less. In addition to all golf cart rules, LSV/NEVs must be registered and insured. They must also be equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, reflectors, parking brakes, rear view mirror, windshields, seat belts and they must have a Vehicle Identification Number. A valid driver’s license is required to operate any golf cart or LSV/NEV on the streets of Pinellas County.
To whom should I report improper golf cart operation?
Unlawful or improper golf cart operation should be reported to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s North District Office Patrol Line: 727-582-6900 (non-emergency) or 9-1-1 for an emergency.