Savannah Golf Cart Laws (2026)
Savannah, Georgia golf cart laws: LSV Only (25 mph max, age 16+). Where to drive, rental info, and local ordinances.
Key Facts
Overview
Savannah is famous for its guided electric cart tours through the Historic District and its 22 tree-lined squares. However, there is an important distinction: the tour operators and most street-legal vehicles you see are Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) like GEM cars, not standard golf carts. Georgia law requires a local ordinance before standard golf carts (classified as Personal Transportation Vehicles or PTVs) can operate on public streets. LSVs, which meet federal motor vehicle safety standards, follow different and more permissive rules under state law. This makes Savannah more of an LSV city than a traditional golf cart city.
Savannah Local Rules
How Savannah rules differ from Georgia state law
- Standard golf carts (PTVs) require a local ordinance before they can be used on public streets in Georgia
- LSVs (like GEM cars) are registered motor vehicles and can operate on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less without a separate local ordinance
- LSVs must be registered with the Georgia DOR, carry liability insurance, and display a license plate
- A valid driver's license is required for all LSV operators
- Georgia PTVs are limited to roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less where a local ordinance permits them
- PTVs require headlights, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, a horn, rearview mirror, and hip restraints or handholds for passengers
- PTVs/golf carts cannot exceed 20 mph and must weigh under 1,300 pounds
- Commercial tour operators using LSVs must comply with city business licensing requirements
- Chatham County (unincorporated areas) has a petition process for neighborhoods to become authorized "motorized districts" for golf cart use
Where to Drive in Savannah
- Historic District squares - 22 squares laid out in a grid pattern; side streets around the squares have low speed limits ideal for LSV travel
- Bull Street - runs through the center of the Historic District past multiple squares including Chippewa Square and Forsyth Park
- River Street - cobblestone waterfront; accessible by LSV but the steep ramps and rough surface require caution
- Bay Street - runs along the river bluff above River Street; common route for tour operators
- Abercorn Street - main north-south road through the district; portions have higher speed limits
- Forsyth Park - southern anchor of the Historic District; streets around the park are popular tour stops
- Victory Drive and DeRenne Avenue - higher-speed roads that are off-limits to golf carts and should be avoided even in LSVs
Street-Legal Equipment
Common equipment needed to make your golf cart street-legal in Georgia. Requirements vary by locality - check your local regulations.
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Tips for Driving in Savannah
- If you see golf carts on Savannah streets, they are almost certainly LSVs (electric GEM cars or similar), not standard golf carts. LSVs have license plates, seat belts, and meet federal safety standards
- Renting an LSV for a self-guided tour is a popular alternative to walking or taking a trolley. Several companies near the Historic District offer hourly and daily rentals
- The Historic District grid makes navigation simple, but watch for one-way streets and the squares, which function as small roundabouts
- River Street cobblestones are rough. Drive slowly and watch for pedestrians, especially near restaurants and shops
- Chatham County neighborhoods outside the city can petition to allow golf cart use, but this requires 51% of residents to sign on
- If you own a standard golf cart and want to use it in Savannah, check with the city about whether your specific area has an authorizing ordinance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about golf cart laws in Savannah, Georgia.
Can you drive a golf cart in downtown Savannah?
Standard golf carts (PTVs) require a local ordinance to operate on public streets in Georgia. Most vehicles you see in downtown Savannah are LSVs (Low-Speed Vehicles like GEM cars), which are registered motor vehicles with license plates and insurance. LSVs can legally operate on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less.
What is the difference between a golf cart and an LSV in Savannah?
A golf cart (PTV in Georgia law) is limited to 20 mph, weighs under 1,300 pounds, and needs a local ordinance to be used on public roads. An LSV can go up to 25 mph, meets federal motor vehicle safety standards, and is registered with the state like a car. Most tour operators in Savannah use LSVs.
Can you rent a golf cart for a tour in Savannah?
Yes, though what rental companies offer are usually LSVs (electric GEM cars), not standard golf carts. Several operators near the Historic District offer self-guided and guided tours with hourly and daily rental options.
Do you need a license to drive a golf cart in Savannah?
Yes. Georgia requires a valid driver's license for both PTV and LSV operation on public roads. The minimum age is 16 with a valid license, or 15 with a learner's permit if accompanied by an adult.
Can you drive a golf cart on River Street in Savannah?
LSVs can access River Street, but the cobblestone surface is rough and the ramps down to the waterfront are steep. Drive slowly and watch for heavy pedestrian traffic, especially near restaurants and shops.
Can neighborhoods in Savannah allow golf carts on their streets?
Yes. Chatham County has a petition process where 51% of residents in a neighborhood can sign to become an authorized "motorized district" for golf cart use. The roads must be two-lane with speed limits of 25 mph or less.
Related Resources
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