Golf Carts
Golf Cart Use Throughout Buena Vista
Golf carts are a unique and convenient way to get around Buena Vista, and part of what makes our community feel connected and accessible. The City allows golf carts on designated streets as an alternative mode of transportation, but with that flexibility comes a shared responsibility to operate them safely and in accordance with City ordinance and state law.
Golf carts are permitted only on specific streets and under certain conditions. Operators must be licensed drivers, carts must be registered with the City, and all applicable traffic laws apply – just as they would for any other vehicle. Safety for drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists is always the priority.
This page provides a high-level overview to help you get started. For full details, please review the official Operator’s Manual here: Golf Cart Manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to drive a golf cart?
Yes. All golf cart operators must have a valid driver’s license. This ensures that anyone operating a golf cart on public streets understands the rules of the road and can safely navigate alongside other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Do I have to register my golf cart?
Yes. Golf carts must be registered annually through the City, and a decal must be displayed on the cart at all times while operating on public streets. The registration process helps ensure that carts meet safety requirements and that operators have provided proof of ownership and insurance.
Where can I drive a golf cart?
Golf carts are allowed on designated City streets with posted speed limits of 25 mph or less. They are not permitted on higher-speed roads or highways, except at specific, approved crossing locations (such as Route 60 and U.S. 501).
Additionally, golf carts should only be operated in areas where they do not impede the normal flow of traffic and where conditions are safe for shared roadway use.
Can I drive my golf cart at night?
Yes, but only if your golf cart is properly equipped for nighttime operation. This includes working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield. These features are required to ensure visibility for both the driver and others on the road. Without this equipment, golf carts are limited to daytime use (sunrise to sunset).
What equipment is required on my golf cart?
All golf carts must meet basic safety standards before being operated on City streets. Required equipment includes:
- Efficient brakes
- Reliable steering
- A horn
- Safe tires
- A rearview mirror
- Reflective warning devices
Additional features such as lights and signals are required for nighttime use. These requirements are in place to ensure that golf carts can operate safely alongside other vehicles.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Golf cart owners must provide proof of liability insurance when registering their cart. This protects both the operator and others in the event of an accident involving property damage or injury. In many cases, this requires a separate policy or rider, as standard homeowner policies may not fully cover street use.
Who can drive a golf cart?
Golf carts may only be operated by individuals who hold a valid driver’s license. This ensures that anyone driving a golf cart on public streets has the knowledge and experience needed to safely follow traffic laws and share the road with other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
While Virginia law may allow younger operators in some limited circumstances, the City of Buena Vista requires a licensed driver for operation on City streets. This means children and unlicensed individuals are not permitted to drive golf carts within the City.
Can I drive my golf cart on sidewalks or trails?
Golf carts are not permitted on sidewalks or other pedestrian-only areas unless specifically designated. These spaces are intended for walking, biking, and other non-motorized uses, and keeping them separate helps reduce safety risks for all users.
Can I drive my golf cart on the River Walk?
While the River Walk is an important connection within the community, it is primarily designed for pedestrians and cyclists. Because of its shared and often high-use nature, golf cart use on the River Walk is not advised.
To help maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone, we encourage golf cart operators to use designated streets and approved routes instead.
What rules do I have to follow while driving?
f cart operators must follow the same general rules of the road as other vehicles. This includes:
- Obeying all traffic signs and signals
- Yielding to pedestrians and cyclists
- Driving on the right side of the road
- Using proper signals when turning or stopping
Operators should also drive defensively, remain alert, and adjust to road and traffic conditions at all times.
Reminder!
Golf carts help make Buena Vista more connected, accessible, and enjoyable, but they are still vehicles operating on public streets. Please drive carefully, stay aware of your surroundings, and do your part to keep our community safe.
Operating a golf cart on public streets is considered a privilege, not a right. Continued access depends on safe, responsible use by all operators. Failing to follow the rules or operating unsafely may result in citations or the loss of this privilege.
Getting Between Glen Maury Park and Downtown
One of the most common uses of golf carts in Buena Vista is traveling between Glen Maury Park and Downtown. Whether you’re heading to an event, enjoying the park, or exploring town while camping, this connection has become a go-to route for residents and visitors alike.
To help make that trip easier, the City has created a printable map highlighting a recommended route between these two destinations.
A few important notes about the map:
- This map is designed to show a commonly used connection route, not the full network of all streets where golf carts are permitted.
- Golf carts are allowed on many additional streets throughout the City, as long as they meet ordinance requirements and posted speed limits.
- Streets with speed limits above 25 mph – and certain major roadways – are restricted, except at designated and approved crossing locations.
- Always follow posted signage and use caution, especially when approaching crossings or areas with higher traffic.
We encourage users to take advantage of this connection while staying mindful of safety and surrounding traffic conditions.