Tennessee is home to many welcoming golf cart communities where residents enjoy safe and legal access to streets using community golf carts.
As interest in eco-friendly transportation grows, more people in Tennessee are turning to community golf carts as a convenient and efficient way to get around. Whether it’s commuting around a neighborhood, visiting a friend down the street, or heading to the clubhouse, these small electric vehicles have become an essential part of daily life in many parts of the state. But are they legal on Tennessee streets? The answer is yes—under certain conditions and in designated areas.
In Tennessee, golf carts are generally not permitted on public streets by default. However, state law allows municipalities to adopt ordinances that authorize golf cart operation on specific roads. To be legally driven, the road must be part of a locally designated golf cart route and the cart must meet specific safety requirements set by the local government. Operators must also possess a valid driver’s license and follow all traffic laws just like any other vehicle driver.
This legal flexibility has opened the door for many planned communities and neighborhoods to embrace golf carts as a safe and practical mode of transportation.
Tennessee’s golf cart communities are designed with cart accessibility in mind. Here are some features you’ll commonly find in these areas:
These communities prioritize connectivity, convenience, and quality of life, making them ideal for retirees, families, and anyone looking for a relaxed lifestyle.
Several neighborhoods across Tennessee are known for their golf cart accessibility. Here are a few notable examples:
This master-planned lakeside community is famous for its extensive golf course network and is fully supportive of golf cart use. Residents can ride directly from home to the course or around the village using dedicated pathways.
With its serene lake views and golf-friendly layout, this resort-style community is perfect for those who want to use a golf cart for both leisure and daily errands.
Located along Old Hickory Lake, Fairvue offers a country club lifestyle where golf carts are commonly used to access the clubhouse, fitness centers, and scenic walking trails.
This gated community is designed for easy, low-speed travel, making it a great option for golf cart enthusiasts. Wide streets and accessible amenities are ideal for cart use.
Living in a golf cart-friendly neighborhood enhances mobility while reducing fuel costs and emissions. Residents enjoy the freedom of short trips without the need for a full-size vehicle. It also encourages social interaction and outdoor activity, making these communities not just practical, but vibrant and active places to live.
Whether you’re retired, raising a family, or simply looking for a simpler way to travel within your neighborhood, Tennessee’s golf cart communities offer a unique and enjoyable lifestyle. From lakeside developments to suburban retreats, these areas make community golf carts a central part of everyday life. Before purchasing a golf cart, always check with your local municipality to ensure it complies with regional regulations and is street-legal where you live.
