North Dakota allows local municipalities to regulate golf cart use, permitting limited public road access during daylight hours between a resident’s home and a golf course.
Golf carts are increasingly used in residential areas across the U.S., and golf cart usage in North Dakota is no exception. While not designed for major highways, golf carts are ideal for short-distance travel within communities, particularly when heading to and from nearby golf courses. If you're planning to use a golf cart in North Dakota, it's important to understand the local laws and how they apply.
In North Dakota, the state law gives municipalities the authority to allow golf carts on city streets. However, this permission comes with a few specific limitations. Golf carts may only be driven on public roads within city limits during daylight hours, and their use is generally restricted to travel between the driver’s residence and a golf course. This targeted use ensures safety while offering residents a convenient and eco-friendly transportation alternative.
While city governments can permit golf cart operation on local streets, certain restrictions are set at the state level. Golf carts are not permitted to operate on federal, state, or county highways located within city limits, with one exception: they may cross these highways at perpendicular intersections. This crossing must be done with caution and only at designated traffic-controlled junctions.
For example, if a highway runs through a town and separates a neighborhood from a golf course, a golf cart may legally cross that road as long as it’s a perpendicular crossing and done safely. However, sustained travel along the shoulder or lane of a highway is strictly prohibited.
Unlike other motorized vehicles, golf carts in North Dakota are not subject to the same ownership, registration, or equipment standards. This means you are not required to title or register your golf cart with the Department of Transportation, nor must it be outfitted with special lights, mirrors, or other features that might be required in other jurisdictions.
This relaxed approach makes it easier for residents to enjoy short-distance travel within their communities without the burden of additional paperwork or modifications. However, drivers should still exercise caution and comply with any additional city-level regulations that may exist.
North Dakota offers residents the flexibility to use golf carts in a practical, community-friendly way. By allowing city governments to authorize golf cart use on specific roads, the state promotes local control and encourages sustainable transportation. While there are limits—particularly regarding highway usage—the ability to travel from your home to a nearby golf course during daylight hours without the burden of registration or added equipment makes golf carts a popular choice for short-range travel. Be sure to check with your municipality to understand the full scope of local regulations.
