North Myrtle Beach, October 9, 2025
News Summary
North Myrtle Beach has introduced new golf cart ordinances in response to updates in South Carolina law. Key regulations include restrictions on where golf carts can be driven, safety requirements for passengers, and mandatory registration. The changes aim to ensure safety for residents and visitors, but violations could result in fines or jail time. Additional proposals for extending operational hours are also being considered, underscoring the lively discourse around golf cart use in this coastal area.
North Myrtle Beach Enforces New Golf Cart Ordinances Following State Changes
North Myrtle Beach is making waves with the introduction of new golf cart ordinances that are sure to impact locals and visitors alike. Golf carts have become a popular mode of transportation in the Myrtle Beach area, often seen zipping along the roads. However, recent updates to South Carolina law are bringing some important changes that residents should be aware of.
Key Regulations for Golf Carts
In May, South Carolina updated its laws regarding golf cart operation, giving local governments more authority to regulate their use. This means that North Myrtle Beach has stepped up to the plate and is now enforcing its own specific golf cart ordinance. Here’s what you need to know:
- Golf carts may only be driven on highways with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Unfortunately, many of the main roads in Myrtle Beach exceed this limit, meaning golf carts are largely restricted.
- Designated Paths: Golf carts must stick to designated paths that are at least 4 feet away from traffic lanes, or separated by a hard concrete curb or parking spaces. This is determined by local municipalities or counties.
- No Ordinance in Horry County: Currently, Horry County does not have its own specific golf cart ordinance and follows state laws instead. This means without local rules, golf carts can cross highways at intersections but have to stay within 4 miles of their registered address or gated community entrance.
- Safety First: Any passengers under the age of 12 are required to wear a fastened safety belt while riding in a golf cart on public streets.
- Daylight Driving: Golf carts can be operated only during daylight hours unless specific local ordinances allow extended hours.
- Registration Requirements: Golf carts must be registered with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. They also cannot exceed the number of seats available. Operators must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.
- Prohibited Areas: Golf carts are not allowed on sidewalks, multi-use paths, and streets with speed limits over 35 mph.
Local Restrictions in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach has some additional specific restrictions worth noting. For instance, certain sections of Ocean Boulevard are off-limits for golf carts, but they can cross at designated intersections. Such measures ensure that both residents and visitors can navigate the area safely.
It’s also important to highlight that rental companies now have obligations to install seatbelts for children under 12 due to this new law. However, many of these companies are still in the process of implementing these safety features.
Consequences for Violating Ordinances
Those who violate these new golf cart regulations could face a $100 fine and/or up to 30 days in jail, emphasizing the seriousness of adhering to safe driving practices.
Future Considerations
In exciting news, Surfside Beach is contemplating extending operational hours for golf carts to allow for 24-hour access. This proposal will be discussed further in upcoming meetings as they gather public input. Additionally, the definition of “daylight hours” is also under review, likely to align with changing sunset times.
Conclusion
With these updates, residents and visitors need to stay informed about the new golf cart ordinances in North Myrtle Beach. As golf carts continue to be a favored mode of transport, understanding these regulations ensures everyone can enjoy safer travels around this beautiful coastal area!
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News
- Wikipedia: Golf Cart
- WBTW News
- Google Search: Golf cart regulations Myrtle Beach
- My Horry News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf Cart Laws
- AOL News
- Google News: Golf cart news Myrtle Beach
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
