Michigan Golf Cart Law Changed: What Drivers Need to Know

Hopping in a golf cart and heading over to a neighbor’s house sounds like a pretty solid way to get around. Nice day, only going a few blocks, why not?

Well, there are a few things you should know before you leave the driveway. Michigan changed its golf cart law this summer, but that doesn’t mean you can just cruise wherever you want. Depending on where you live, you might not be allowed on the street at all.

What Changed Under Michigan’s Golf Cart Law?

This one probably slipped past a lot of people over the summer. Under Public Act 73 of 2026, which took effect July 27, Michigan communities with fewer than 65,000 residents can choose to allow golf carts on their streets. Before that, the cutoff was 30,000.

So more cities, villages, and townships now have that option. But your community still has to give it the green light. Just because Michigan changed the law doesn’t mean you’re automatically good to go.

What Are Michigan’s Golf Cart Rules?

You still have to be at least 16 with a valid driver’s license to drive a golf cart on public streets. That part isn’t new.

Honestly, that surprised me because I see really young kids driving golf carts through my neighborhood all the time. Apparently, seeing it all the time doesn’t mean it’s allowed.

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You’ve got to keep it at 15 mph or less, and generally, you can’t take a golf cart down a road with a speed limit over 30 mph. You can cross it, though. Sidewalks are a no-go, too. And you have to park it 30 minutes before sunset and wait until 30 minutes after sunrise to head back out.

Before you go cruising, check with your city, village, or township. Getting pulled over halfway to your neighbor’s house would kind of ruin the whole thing. Not to mention, it would be a little embarrassing.

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So, who do you call? If you hit one of these animals, you’ll want to contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or local law enforcement. If it’s an actual emergency, call 911; otherwise, just dial the non-emergency number. They’ll handle the situation and make sure everything's squared away. Just don’t forget to report it.

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Source: Michigan Changed the Rules for Driving Golf Carts on Streets

Filed Under: Michigan, golf cart

Categories: Michigan News