Maine allows local municipalities to determine whether golf cart usage is permitted on public roads, but there are still key state-wide laws you must follow when driving in authorized areas.
In the state of Maine, golf cart regulations are designed to provide flexibility for local governments while ensuring safety on public roads. Municipalities have the authority to permit or restrict the operation of golf carts on public streets. However, even in areas where golf carts are allowed, drivers must follow statewide traffic rules that ensure safe integration with other vehicles.
While golf cart operation on public roads depends on local approval, Maine law enforces the following general conditions in authorized areas:
Operating a golf cart outside of these regulations may lead to fines or removal from the road. These rules are in place to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.
In most cases, golf carts are not considered registered motor vehicles in Maine. Therefore, they are not subject to titling or standard registration. However, if your cart is upgraded to meet federal safety standards for a neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV), it may be eligible for road use with registration and insurance.
To qualify as a NEV, the vehicle must meet the following requirements:
When properly modified and inspected, a NEV can be legally registered and driven on public roads beyond designated golf cart zones. The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) must inspect and approve these modifications before the vehicle is certified for street use.
While the state doesn’t require a special permit to drive a golf cart on private land or in permitted communities, some local governments may set additional rules. Certain towns and private communities may require local permits, display stickers, or proof of insurance to allow golf cart use on shared roads.
To avoid violations, contact your town office or local law enforcement to confirm if golf carts are permitted on public roads in your area. Be sure to ask whether any special permits or identifiers are required for legal operation.
Golf cart-friendly areas in Maine are often found in beach towns, seasonal resorts, and retirement communities. In these neighborhoods, golf carts are popular due to their low emissions, convenience, and suitability for short-distance travel.
Maine’s golf cart laws balance local authority with standardized safety requirements. As long as you're driving within designated areas and obeying posted signs and traffic laws, using a golf cart can be a fun and efficient way to travel. If you're looking for more versatility and road access, consider upgrading to a neighborhood electric vehicle. With the proper safety features and state registration, NEVs offer an eco-friendly, street-legal alternative that’s perfect for local commuting.
