City of Lapeer Golf Car Ordinance

Written on 07/01/2022
Chris Babcock

This ordinance permits the limited use of golf carts on certain city streets. This decision, detailed in Ordinance #2022-02, aims to provide residents with an alternative and convenient mode of transportation within specific guidelines to ensure safety and compliance with traffic laws.

Who Can Operate a Golf Cart?
To operate a golf cart on the approved streets in Lapeer, individuals must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver's license. This requirement ensures that all operators have a basic understanding of road safety and traffic regulations.

Permissible Vehicles and Safety Requirements
The ordinance strictly applies to golf carts; other recreational vehicles like ATVs and UTVs are not permitted. For a golf cart to be eligible, it must be equipped with essential safety features, including:

  • Two headlights
  • One taillight
  • One brake light
  • Brakes and a parking brake
  • Mirrors
  • A red reflector on each rear corner

Additionally, if passengers under 16 years old are seated on a rear-facing seat, they must use a seatbelt or a similar restraint device.

Operational Guidelines
Golf carts can be operated on city streets under several conditions:

  • Operators must stay as close to the right side of the roadway as practicable.
  • Golf carts are prohibited from being driven on state trunk line highways, streets with speed limits over 30 mph, and specific streets listed in the ordinance such as Demille Blvd, Millville Rd, and W. Genesee St.
  • The maximum speed for operating a golf cart is 15 mph.
  • Operation is only allowed from one-half hour after sunrise to one-half hour before sunset and not during snowy or icy conditions.

Registration and Penalties
There is no requirement to register a golf cart to use it under the new ordinance. However, violations of the ordinance can result in civil infractions with fines up to $500. Additionally, if a golf cart operator causes damage to the environment, roads, or public property, they may be required to pay restitution.

Community Response and Future Events
The approval of this ordinance has been well-received by many residents, who see it as a practical solution for short-distance travel within the city. Viers Golf Cars, located at 1640 N. Lapeer Rd, is providing complimentary printed maps and FAQs to help residents navigate the new rules and understand the designated routes.

For more detailed information on the streets where golf carts are permitted and upcoming events that may feature unique opportunities for golf cart use, residents can view the attached PDF.

The introduction of this ordinance marks a significant step in enhancing local mobility while maintaining safety and order on the streets of Lapeer.



CITY OF LAPEER GOLF CART ORDINANCE FAQ_MAP_ORDINANCE_V1.1 CITY OF LAPEER GOLF CART ORDINANCE FAQ_MAP_ORDINANCE_V1.1