Golf Carts

Golf Cart & UTV Ordinance Information

Golf Carts and Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) will be permitted on the roadways within the City of Columbus only when they meet the conditions set forth in the ordinance. The ordinance does not authorize ATVs, dirt bikes, go-karts, or off-road vehicles to be driven on the roads. This ordinance is effective beginning June 1, 2026.

What is a golf cart?

The definition is provided in Indiana Code § 9-13-2-69.7. As it now exists, that term means a four-wheeled motor vehicle originally and specifically designed and intended to transport one or more individuals and golf clubs for the purpose of playing the game of golf on a golf course.

What is a UTV?

A Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) means a self-propelled, motor-driven vehicle designed for off-road use, having at least four wheels, non-straddle seating for two or more occupants positioned side-by-side, and a steering wheel for control, which is sometimes referred to as a side-by-side or utility terrain vehicle. The term includes vehicles designed primarily for work, recreation, or general utility purposes, with a width not to exceed 74 inches and a gross vehicle weight rating not exceeding 2,000 pounds.

What do they have to have?

• Golf carts and UTVs must be equipped with:
  • Headlights
  • Taillights
  • Brake lights
  • Horn, turn signals
  • Rear reflectors
  • Functioning brakes
  • Rearview mirror
  • Slow-moving vehicle emblem
  • Seatbelts
• Golf carts and UTVs must have insurance.
• Golf carts and UTVs must be operated by someone with a valid driver’s license and be at least 16 years and 180 days old.

What are the rules of driving?

• Must be operated in accordance with the normal laws of driving a car
• Must not travel more than 30 mph on any city street
• Stay as far to the right side of roads practicable, except when turning left
• No open alcohol containers in the vehicle
• All occupants must remain seated and no more occupants than there are factory-installed seats

Where can they be driven?

Only on city streets where the speed limit is 30 mph or less.

Golf carts and UTVs are prohibited on:

• Central Avenue
• Washington Street between 11 and 25 Streets
• 25 Street between Washington and US 31
• Goeller Boulevard between SR 46 and the west entrance to Tipton Lakes Boulevard
• All state roads and highways, including 2nd and 3rd Streets
• Sidewalks, trails, or bike paths

Crossing streets shall only be permitted at perpendicular intersections.

Golf Card & UTV Road Map

Click map to view larger size.

What are the penalties?

1. First offense – $150 fine.
2. Second offense – $200 fine.
3. Third or subsequent offense – $300 fine, impoundment, and/or prohibition of the offender’s future operation of the golf cart or UTV on City streets. The City may revoke the right to operate for repeated violations or unsafe operation, in addition to fines. In the event of impoundment, the golf cart or UTV shall be released only upon payment of all applicable fines, fees, and storage charges.
4. Each violation shall constitute a separate offense.