Golf Carts/ Low- Speed Vehicles in Duck

The Town of Duck understands that the use of alternatives to traditional motor vehicles has been a long-standing practice by residents and visitors. Per Town of Duck Ordinance No. 18-04, golf carts are subject to the following regulations to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

Properly registered low speed vehicles (LSVs) may look like golf carts, but are not regulated by this ordinance. Low speed vehicles meet state and federal vehicle safety standards, are regulated by NC statutes, and must follow all motor vehicle laws. Learn more about the difference in the sidebar.

To operate your golf cart in town, please make sure you complete our registration form and inspection form, and read and agree to the rules attached to the form.

Golf Cart Registration Form
Town of Duck Golf Cart Ordinance  

Child Safety Restraints

Ensuring the Safety of Your Youngest Passengers: Child Restraints in Low-Speed Vehicles

Navigating the rules for safely transporting children in golf carts and other Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) can seem complex, but understanding the specific requirements is crucial for their protection. Based on North Carolina General Statute 20-137.1(a1), here is a straightforward guide to ensure your child is securely and legally restrained.

The primary rule for child safety in an LSV is to use a federally approved car seat or booster seat, just as you would in a passenger car. However, the law provides specific guidance for the unique seating arrangements in these vehicles.

Children Under 8 Years Old & Less Than 80 Pounds

For any child who is under eight years of age and weighs less than 80 pounds, they must be properly secured in a weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system.

• Best Practice: The safest place for a child in a moving vehicle is always the back seat. Secure the car seat or booster seat in a rear-facing or forward-facing position according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the child’s size and weight. This requires a seat in the LSV that is equipped with both a lap and shoulder belt to properly anchor the restraint system.

Special Considerations for Lap Belts

North Carolina State law recognizes that many LSVs are not equipped with the same lap and shoulder belt systems found in standard cars.

• For Children 40 to 80 Pounds: If the seating position in your LSV only has a lap belt, a child who is less than eight years old and weighs between 40 and 80 pounds may be restrained using just that properly fitted lap belt. This typically applies to children who would otherwise be in a booster seat.
• Critical Exception for Children Under 40 Pounds: If a weight-appropriate child restraint system (like a car seat) cannot be properly installed because the vehicle lacks the necessary belts, a child weighing less than 40 pounds may not be transported in the low-speed vehicle. There are no exceptions to this rule. The safety of these smaller children requires a restraint system that cannot be achieved with a lap belt alone.

In summary, the type of restraint required depends directly on the child’s weight and the belt systems available in your specific golf cart or LSV. Always prioritize the use of a proper car seat or booster when possible, and ensure any child under 40 pounds is only transported when their car seat can be securely installed.

Golf Carts

Golf carts: vehicles designed for operation on a golf course for sporting/recreational purposes and that are not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 mph.