City of Norfolk

Golf Cart Rules of The Road

Golf carts must follow the same traffic laws as cars, including adhering to regulatory signs and using directional or hand signals when making turns. Operators of these vehicles can be issued traffic citations, like those for automobiles, with associated fines and points on their license. Norfolk is committed to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors, and enforcing these laws helps maintain a safe environment for everyone on the road.

Vehicle Definitions & Requirements

A golf cart is defined as a motor vehicle designed for use on a golf course or for sporting and recreational purposes, with a maximum speed of 20 mph. No person shall operate a golf cart on any public highway without possessing a valid driver's license.

Additionally, a reflective slow-moving vehicle warning emblem is required on the rear of the vehicle to ensure visibility and safety.

Nighttime or Low Light Driving

 To operate a golf cart at night or before sunrise, your vehicle must be equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a reflective slow-moving vehicle warning emblem on the rear. Headlights should be turned on 30 minutes before sunset and remain on until 30 minutes after sunrise. Always use headlights during inclement weather for increased visibility.

The Rules of the Road

• Golf carts may only be driven on designated public highways where the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour or less.
• A golf cart may not cross any highway at an intersection where the posted speed limit of the crossing road exceeds 25 miles per hour.
• Passengers are not allowed to stand in the vehicle or ride on the back platform. Keep arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times.
• When making a left turn, after signaling, carefully merge with vehicular traffic just before the intersection and turn using the proper signal and turn lane where available. Wherever signage or road markings indicate, golf carts must always merge with vehicular traffic.
• Golf carts must yield to other vehicular traffic in all circumstances.
• Golf carts are not permitted to travel on sidewalks.

These rules, provided by the City of Norfolk, are designed to help you safely enjoy your golf cart. Remember that golf carts are not designed to share the road with larger vehicles such as cars or trucks. In the event of a collision, your protection is minimal, similar to riding a motorcycle. Please prioritize safety for yourself and your loved ones.

            Current Golf Cart Zone Map

Request for "GOLF CART USAGE PERMITTED" signs:

Application Form

Application Submission

Upon completion, please email application to the Department of Transportation at norfolktransportation@norfolk.gov or mail to 810 Union Street, Suite 200, VA 23510 for further processing. 

Application Review Process

Upon receipt of the completed application, the department shall request input and recommendations from Planning, Police, Fire Department, and area civic league to determine if you are eligible for “GOLF CART USAGE PERMITTED” signs. 

Next Steps

Applicant will be notified in writing upon approval or denial of application by the Department of Transportation.  If approved, the fabrication of the Golf Cart Usage signs will be scheduled and once completed, signage will be placed in the entrances into the community and appropriate areas of the neighborhood.

Code Enforcement

Please be aware that the City of Norfolk Code of Ordinances Sec. 25-322. - Limitations on golf cart operations on designated highways, Sec. 25-323. - When limitations not applicable, Sec. 25-324. - Insurance requirement, and Sec. 25-325. - Penalties. 

Questions?

If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please contact the Department of Transportation or email the department Directly norfolktransportation@norfolk.gov