Golf Carts and SW Florida Communities
Sunshine, gulf breezes, golf courses—and golf carts—define the Southwest Florida lifestyle, attracting residents to our beautiful golf communities. But after you decide on that perfect winter or year-round home in Florida, and before you start shopping for that perfect golf cart, here are a few questions to ask your future homeowners’ association:
- Am I allowed to own a golf cart?
- Are there “Trail Fees” to drive on the paths in the community?
- Are there size or appearance restrictions on carts?
- What are the driving age, speed, hours, location and/or equipment rules?
- Is my vehicle a traditional golf cart or a “Neighborhood Electric Vehicle?” There are special requirements for NEVs governed by the US Department of Transportation.
The following Southwest Florida communities allow residents to own golf carts*
Audubon Bear’s Paw Collier’s Reserve
Countryside Estero Country Club Grandezza
Grey Oaks Kensington Naples Lakes CC
Olde Cypress Palmira Panther Run
Pelican Sound Quail Creek Quail West
Spanish Wells The Strand Vanderbilt CC
Vasari Wilderness Worthington CC
*Please note this list may not be all-inclusive or reflect the most current information. Please contact the community association directly to verify golf cart ownership rules.
Other common golf cart concerns include whether or not to purchase golf cart insurance. When speaking with your homeowner’s insurance carrier, be sure to verify if medical costs, third party injuries and property damage are covered if you are at fault in an accident.
With more and more non-golfers in golf carts sharing sidewalks, paths, trails, and community streets with pedestrians, bikers and baby/dog strollers, as well as automobiles, it’s always better to know the rules—before you buy.
