Key Takeaways
Understanding Myrtle Beach’s specific golf cart regulations is crucial for residents and the thousands of visitors who flock to this popular coastal destination each year. Here are the essential points every golf cart operator needs to know:
- Golf carts must be registered, permitted, and insured through the South Carolina DMV
- Operators must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license
- Golf carts can only be operated during daylight hours in Myrtle Beach (no nighttime operation)
- Children under 12 must wear fastened safety belts when riding in golf carts on public roads
- Golf carts are prohibited on primary highways including US 17, Ocean Boulevard (from Sea Mountain Hwy to 27th Ave South), Sea Mountain Highway, and 27th Avenue South
- Operators can travel within four miles of their registered address on secondary roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less
- Golf carts are NOT allowed on sidewalks, multipurpose paths, or the beach in Myrtle Beach
- Violating these laws can result in fines exceeding $200 and having your golf cart towed
Myrtle Beach follows South Carolina’s statewide golf cart law (Section 56-2-90), which was updated and signed into law on May 22, 2025. The City of Myrtle Beach has established specific local ordinances that work in conjunction with state law to regulate golf cart use within city limits. Whether you’re a year-round resident, seasonal visitor, or tourist exploring the Grand Strand, understanding these regulations will help keep you safe and compliant with the law.
Who Can Operate a Golf Cart in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach strictly enforces age and licensing requirements for golf cart operators to ensure public safety on its busy streets. These requirements apply to everyone operating a golf cart on public roads within city limits, regardless of whether you’re a resident or visitor.
To legally operate a golf cart in Myrtle Beach, you must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. This means that teenagers with learner’s permits cannot operate golf carts on public streets, even with a parent or licensed adult present in the vehicle. The driver’s license requirement ensures that operators have demonstrated knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices through formal testing.
The operator must carry their driver’s license at all times while operating the golf cart on public roads. Law enforcement officers can request to see this documentation during traffic stops, and failure to produce a valid license can result in citations and fines. Parents and guardians should be aware that allowing an unlicensed minor to operate a golf cart is a serious violation that can result in fines exceeding $200, and the golf cart may be towed at the owner’s or renter’s expense.
Myrtle Beach Police Department actively enforces these requirements, particularly during peak tourist seasons when golf cart traffic increases significantly. Officers patrol neighborhoods and beach areas regularly to ensure compliance with all golf cart regulations. The city emphasizes education and warning first, but repeat offenders or those operating recklessly can face immediate citations.
Registration, Insurance, and Permit Requirements
Before operating a golf cart on any public street in Myrtle Beach, owners must complete several important administrative steps through the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. These requirements ensure that golf carts meet minimum standards and that operators carry appropriate insurance coverage.
Every golf cart operated on public roads must be registered with the SC DMV and display a valid permit decal. To obtain registration, owners must provide proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or manufacturer’s certificate of origin) and proof of liability insurance that meets South Carolina’s minimum requirements for vehicles operated on public highways. The registration fee is $5, making it an affordable requirement for most golf cart owners.
The permit decal must be visibly displayed on the golf cart and remains valid for five years or until the owner changes their address, whichever comes first. When you move, you must obtain a new permit decal with your updated address, as the four-mile operating radius is calculated from the address listed on the registration certificate. Rental companies are responsible for ensuring their golf carts are properly registered and permitted before renting them to customers.
Liability insurance is perhaps the most critical requirement. This coverage protects other parties in the event you cause an accident that results in injuries or property damage. The operator must carry proof of insurance whenever operating the golf cart on public roads, and failure to maintain valid coverage can result in citations and may leave you personally liable for all damages in an accident. Insurance requirements recognize that golf carts, while slower than traditional vehicles, can still cause serious injuries and property damage in collisions.
Where You Can and Cannot Drive Golf Carts in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach has established specific geographic restrictions on golf cart operation to balance convenience with safety concerns. Understanding where golf carts are permitted and prohibited is essential for legal operation within the city.
Golf carts may only be operated on secondary roads where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. Secondary roads include residential streets and many neighborhood thoroughfares such as Mr. Joe White Avenue, 21st Avenue North, and 3rd Avenue South. These roads typically have lower traffic volumes and slower-moving vehicles, making them safer for golf cart operation.
Golf carts are strictly prohibited on primary highways within Myrtle Beach city limits. This prohibition includes US Highway 17 (Kings Highway), Sea Mountain Highway, Ocean Boulevard from Sea Mountain Highway to 27th Avenue South, and 27th Avenue South from Ocean Boulevard to US 17. These restrictions exist because primary highways carry high-speed traffic that creates dangerous conditions for slow-moving golf carts. However, golf carts may cross these primary highways at intersections where the cross street meets the speed limit requirements.
Additionally, golf carts are NOT allowed on multipurpose paths, sidewalks, or the beach within Myrtle Beach city limits. This prohibition protects pedestrians and maintains these spaces for their intended uses. Operators who attempt to drive on beaches, boardwalks, or pedestrian paths face citations and fines.
Unless you live in a gated community, operators must stay within four miles of the address listed on their registration certificate. For residents of gated communities, the four-mile radius is measured from any entrance or exit point to the community rather than from a specific home address. This distance limitation recognizes that golf carts are designed for short-distance transportation and are not suitable for longer trips on public roads.
Operating Hours and Time Restrictions
One of the most important restrictions golf cart operators must understand is when they can legally operate their vehicles in Myrtle Beach. Unlike some other coastal communities, Myrtle Beach maintains strict limitations on golf cart operating hours.
Golf carts may only be operated during daylight hours in Myrtle Beach. South Carolina law defines daylight hours as after 6:00 a.m. and no later than 6:00 p.m. However, during daylight saving time (from spring through fall), daylight hours extend from 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. All other times are considered nighttime hours when golf cart operation is prohibited.
The City of Myrtle Beach is currently reviewing its local golf cart ordinance following recent changes to state law that give municipalities more authority over operating hours. However, as of now, nighttime operation remains prohibited regardless of whether golf carts are equipped with headlights and taillights. The city has not enacted an ordinance permitting nighttime operation, meaning the default state restrictions apply.
Operators should plan their trips carefully to ensure they can return home or to their destination before the end of daylight hours. Getting caught operating a golf cart after dark can result in citations and fines. This is particularly important for tourists and visitors who may not be familiar with the specific time restrictions and could inadvertently violate the law while returning from dinner or evening activities.
Law enforcement actively patrols for nighttime golf cart violations, especially during summer months when tourist activity peaks. The restrictions exist because standard golf carts often lack adequate lighting for nighttime visibility, creating safety hazards for both operators and other motorists.
Safety Requirements for Passengers and Children
Recent changes to South Carolina law have introduced important new safety requirements specifically designed to protect children riding in golf carts on public roads. These requirements apply throughout Myrtle Beach and are actively enforced by local police.
All passengers under the age of 12 must wear fastened safety belts whenever the golf cart is being operated on public streets and highways. This requirement took effect immediately when the law was signed in May 2025, with no grace period for compliance. The law recognizes that children are particularly vulnerable to injury in golf cart accidents, which can include rollovers, sudden stops, and collisions with other vehicles.
Golf cart owners must ensure their vehicles are equipped with appropriate safety belts for young passengers before taking them on public roads. Not all golf carts come standard with safety restraints, so owners may need to have them professionally installed to comply with the law. The Myrtle Beach Police Department’s philosophy is to educate, warn, and cite, meaning officers will stop operators observed with unbelted children to ensure awareness of the new requirement.
Beyond the legal requirement, golf cart operators should remember that these vehicles lack the structural protections found in automobiles. There are typically no doors, minimal rollover protection, and no crash absorption features. This makes defensive driving and cautious operation essential for everyone’s safety, regardless of age.
Golf carts should never carry more passengers than the vehicle is designed to accommodate. Overloading a golf cart affects handling and stability, increasing the risk of accidents. Operators should also ensure all passengers remain seated while the vehicle is in motion and never allow passengers to ride on the hood, roof, or any external part of the golf cart.
Specific Road Restrictions and Prohibited Areas
Myrtle Beach has designated certain roads as completely off-limits to golf cart traffic due to safety concerns related to traffic volume and speed. Understanding these specific prohibitions is crucial for legal and safe operation.
As mentioned earlier, golf carts are prohibited on all primary highways within city limits. Specifically, this includes US Highway 17 (both Business and Bypass), which serves as the main north-south artery through the Grand Strand. Golf carts are also banned from Sea Mountain Highway, a major thoroughfare connecting the beach to inland areas. Ocean Boulevard, the iconic beachfront road, is restricted to golf carts from Sea Mountain Highway south to 27th Avenue South. Finally, 27th Avenue South itself is off-limits from Ocean Boulevard west to US Highway 17.
These restrictions can create challenges for golf cart operators trying to navigate the city, as these roads form major corridors that divide many neighborhoods. However, operators can cross these primary highways at intersections where they connect with permitted secondary roads. When crossing, extreme caution is essential due to the significant speed differential between golf carts and highway traffic.
Golf carts are also prohibited from operating on Horry County beaches at any time, with limited exceptions. From November 1 through February 28, golf carts are permitted on beaches within the county if they have a valid state permit and are operated by a licensed driver. However, this seasonal beach access does not apply to sidewalks, boardwalks, or multipurpose paths, which remain off-limits year-round.
The city maintains an interactive map showing golf cart restricted roads, which can be helpful for planning routes and ensuring compliance. Operators unfamiliar with the area should take time to review permitted roads before venturing out, particularly if traveling to unfamiliar parts of the city.
Local Ordinances vs. State Law
Understanding the relationship between state law and local ordinances is important for golf cart operators in Myrtle Beach. South Carolina’s updated golf cart law gives municipalities significant authority to establish their own regulations while maintaining certain statewide standards.
The state law (Section 56-2-90) establishes the foundational requirements that apply throughout South Carolina, including minimum age, licensing, registration, insurance, and the basic rule that golf carts can only operate on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less. These state requirements cannot be weakened or eliminated by local ordinances.
However, municipalities like Myrtle Beach have the authority to adopt ordinances that further regulate golf cart operations within their jurisdictions. Local governments can stipulate specific hours of operation, designate which particular streets allow golf carts (even if they meet the speed limit requirement), and create dedicated golf cart paths. Importantly, municipalities can permit nighttime operation if golf carts are equipped with working headlights and taillights, though Myrtle Beach has not yet exercised this option.
The City of Myrtle Beach has established additional local restrictions beyond state requirements. Most notably, the city has prohibited golf carts from multipurpose paths and sidewalks, even though state law doesn’t explicitly address these areas. The city has also designated specific primary highways where golf carts are banned, providing clarity for operators about where they cannot drive.
Following the May 2025 update to state law, Myrtle Beach announced it is reviewing its local golf cart ordinance to determine whether any changes are warranted. This review process could result in modified regulations, so operators should stay informed about any announcements from city government regarding golf cart rules.
Visitors from other South Carolina municipalities should not assume that rules in their home jurisdiction apply in Myrtle Beach. Golf cart regulations can vary significantly from one city to another, and what’s permitted in North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, or other nearby communities may differ from Myrtle Beach’s specific requirements.
Consequences of Violating Golf Cart Laws
Operating a golf cart in violation of Myrtle Beach’s regulations can result in serious consequences ranging from citations and fines to legal liability in the event of an accident. Understanding these potential consequences emphasizes the importance of compliance with all applicable laws.
Citations for golf cart violations can be costly. Parents or guardians who allow unlicensed minors to operate golf carts face fines exceeding $200. Additionally, golf carts operated in violation of state or local law are subject to being towed at the owner’s or renter’s expense, which can add hundreds of dollars in towing and impound fees on top of the initial citation.
Beyond immediate fines, violations can lead to more serious consequences if accidents occur. Operating without proper registration or insurance, driving in prohibited areas, or allowing unlicensed operators to drive creates legal liability that can extend far beyond insurance coverage. If you cause an accident while violating golf cart laws, insurance companies may deny coverage, leaving you personally responsible for all damages and injuries.
When accidents result in injuries, violations of golf cart laws become powerful evidence in personal injury claims. If someone is injured because an operator was driving on a prohibited road, operating after dark, or allowed an unlicensed minor to drive, these violations can significantly strengthen the injury claim and increase potential damages. Courts and juries view violations of safety regulations as clear evidence of negligence.
Rental companies can also face consequences if they rent golf carts to underage operators or fail to properly inform renters about applicable restrictions. This has led most reputable rental companies to implement strict age verification procedures and provide detailed information about local regulations to every customer.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department takes golf cart law enforcement seriously, particularly during peak tourist seasons when beach areas see increased golf cart traffic. Officers conduct regular patrols in neighborhoods and commercial areas where golf carts are common. While the department’s stated approach is to educate first, repeat offenders and those operating recklessly can expect immediate citations.
For tourists and visitors, golf cart violations can significantly impact vacation experiences. Being cited, having your rental golf cart towed, or worse, being involved in an accident can create lasting problems. Understanding and following all applicable regulations is the best way to ensure golf cart use enhances rather than ruins your Myrtle Beach experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register my golf cart if I’m only visiting Myrtle Beach?
Yes, all golf carts operated on public roads in Myrtle Beach must be registered with the South Carolina DMV and display a valid permit decal, regardless of whether you’re a resident or visitor. If you’re renting a golf cart from a local company, the rental company should have already handled registration and permitting. However, if you’re bringing your own golf cart to Myrtle Beach for vacation, it must be properly registered with proof of liability insurance before you can legally operate it on city streets. Failure to have proper registration can result in citations and your golf cart being towed.
Can I drive my golf cart on Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach?
Golf carts are prohibited on Ocean Boulevard from Sea Mountain Highway south to 27th Avenue South. This section is designated as a primary highway where golf cart operation is not permitted due to higher traffic volumes and speeds. However, you may cross Ocean Boulevard at intersections where you’re traveling on a permitted secondary road. Golf carts can operate on other portions of Ocean Boulevard outside this restricted section, provided they meet all other requirements including staying within the four-mile radius of your registered address. Always exercise extreme caution when crossing or operating near Ocean Boulevard due to heavy traffic, especially during tourist season.
What happens if I get caught driving my golf cart at night in Myrtle Beach?
Operating a golf cart after daylight hours in Myrtle Beach is a violation of both state law and local ordinances. If caught, you can be cited and fined. Daylight hours are defined as after 6:00 a.m. and no later than 6:00 p.m., or during daylight saving time, after 6:00 a.m. and no later than 8:00 p.m. Currently, Myrtle Beach does not permit nighttime golf cart operation, even if your cart is equipped with headlights and taillights. The city is reviewing its ordinances following recent changes to state law, but until any changes are officially announced and enacted, nighttime operation remains illegal. Plan your trips to ensure you can return home before the end of daylight hours.
Are golf carts allowed on Myrtle Beach’s sidewalks or multipurpose paths?
No, golf carts are explicitly prohibited from operating on multipurpose paths and sidewalks anywhere within the City of Myrtle Beach. This restriction protects pedestrians and maintains these areas for their intended uses. Golf carts are also not allowed on the beach itself, with very limited exceptions during specific months for properly permitted vehicles. These prohibitions are strictly enforced, and violations can result in citations and fines. Golf carts must remain on designated secondary roads where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less.
Do children really need to wear seat belts in golf carts now?
Yes, South Carolina’s updated golf cart law requires that all passengers under the age of 12 must wear fastened safety belts when the golf cart is being operated on public streets and highways. This requirement took effect immediately when the law was signed on May 22, 2025, with no grace period. Golf cart owners must ensure their vehicles are equipped with appropriate safety belts for young passengers. The Myrtle Beach Police Department actively enforces this requirement, stopping operators observed with unbelted children to educate them about the law and ensure compliance. Violations can result in citations, and more importantly, unbelted children face serious injury risk in the event of an accident, rollover, or sudden stop.
What should I do if I’m injured in a golf cart accident in Myrtle Beach?
If you’re injured in a golf cart accident, your immediate priority should be seeking medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Once you’ve received medical care, document the accident scene by taking photographs, gathering witness contact information, and obtaining a police report if officers responded. Avoid making statements about fault or signing any documents without legal advice. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who understands vehicle accident cases as soon as possible. Golf cart accidents often involve complex questions about liability, insurance coverage, and whether violations of golf cart laws contributed to the accident. An attorney can investigate the circumstances, protect your rights, and help you pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
When should I hire a lawyer after a golf cart accident?
You should consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer whenever a golf cart accident results in significant injuries, substantial medical expenses, or disputes about fault. Legal representation becomes particularly important when accidents involve violations of golf cart regulations, multiple parties, insurance coverage disputes, or injuries to children. Attorneys experienced in vehicle accident law understand how South Carolina’s golf cart laws affect liability and can investigate whether violations contributed to causing the accident. Early consultation ensures that critical evidence is preserved, that you don’t make statements that could harm your case, and that insurance companies treat your claim fairly. Most personal injury attorneys, including those at Roden Law, offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless you recover compensation. Given the potential complexity of golf cart accident cases and the serious injuries these accidents can cause, having experienced legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
Sources and Additional Resources:
- City of Myrtle Beach Golf Cart Laws – Official city ordinances and regulations
- South Carolina Code Section 56-2-90 – State golf cart law
- Myrtle Beach Golf Cart Law Update (June 2025) – Recent changes and city review
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Golf cart laws and local ordinances may change. For specific legal guidance regarding a golf cart accident or questions about your rights after being injured in Myrtle Beach, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Roden Law. We serve clients throughout South Carolina and offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case.