Tybee Island Golf Cart Laws (2026)
Tybee Island, Georgia golf cart laws: Permitted (20 mph max, age 16+). Where to drive, rental info, and local ordinances.
Key Facts
Overview
Tybee Island is Savannah's beach, located about 20 minutes east of downtown. Golf carts (called motorized carts in the local ordinance) are allowed on every city street except Highway 80/Butler Avenue, the main road connecting the island to the mainland. The city has some of the most specific equipment requirements in Georgia: every cart must have headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts, a horn, and a top-mounted amber/yellow flashing or rotating light visible from all directions. Annual inspections are mandatory, and the $15 initial registration includes a T-number and inspection sticker.
Tybee Island Local Rules
How Tybee Island rules differ from Georgia state law
- Golf carts are allowed on all city streets except Highway 80/Butler Avenue
- Golf carts may cross Highway 80/Butler Avenue at four designated locations only: south of Park of 7 Flags, 14th Street (signalized), Campbell Avenue (signalized), and Jones Avenue (signalized)
- A $15 initial registration is required at City Hall (renewals are free)
- All carts receive a T-number and inspection sticker after annual inspection
- Annual inspection is mandatory (Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM-11:30 AM and 1:00 PM-3:30 PM)
- Required equipment: headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts for every seat, horn, and a top-mounted amber/yellow flashing or rotating light visible from all directions
- Maximum speed: 20 mph
- A valid driver's license is required; minimum age 16
- Minimum insurance: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident bodily injury, $15,000 property damage
- Golf carts may NOT be driven on the beach, sidewalks, or bike paths
Where to Drive in Tybee Island
- All city streets are approved for golf carts except Highway 80/Butler Avenue
- Highway 80/Butler Avenue - the main road through the island; prohibited for golf carts, but crossings allowed at 4 designated intersections
- Strand Avenue - runs along the south beach area near the pier and Tybee Island Marine Science Center
- Tybrisa Street - the main beach access street near the pier; popular with cart traffic
- 1st Street through 19th Street - cross streets connecting the north and south sides of the island
- Chatham Avenue - runs through residential areas on the back side of the island
- Fort Screven area - historic district at the north end; accessible by cart on residential streets
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 Tybee Island
- The amber/yellow flashing light is the most unusual requirement. It must be mounted on top of the cart and visible from all directions. Make sure yours is working before your inspection
- Annual inspections are done at City Hall, Monday through Friday. Budget 30 minutes and bring your cart during inspection hours (8:00 AM-11:30 AM or 1:00 PM-3:30 PM)
- Highway 80/Butler Avenue is the one road you cannot use. Plan your routes using the cross streets and the roads on either side of Butler Avenue
- If you are renting a cart, the rental company handles registration, insurance, and the inspection. Your cart will already have a T-number and sticker
- Tybee Island police conduct safety checks on golf carts, especially during busy summer weekends. Make sure all required equipment is working
- Do not drive your cart on the beach. It is not allowed, and the sand will damage your cart anyway
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about golf cart laws in Tybee Island, Georgia.
Do golf carts need a flashing amber light on Tybee Island?
Yes. Every motorized cart on Tybee Island must have a top-mounted amber/yellow flashing or rotating light visible from all directions. This is in addition to headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts, and a horn.
Where can you drive a golf cart on Tybee Island?
On every city street except Highway 80/Butler Avenue. You can cross Highway 80 at four designated locations: south of Park of 7 Flags, 14th Street, Campbell Avenue, and Jones Avenue.
How much does it cost to register a golf cart on Tybee Island?
The initial registration fee is $15. Renewals are free. Registration includes an annual inspection, a T-number, and an inspection sticker.
Do golf carts need annual inspections on Tybee Island?
Yes. Every motorized cart must pass an annual inspection at City Hall. Inspections are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM.
Do you need insurance for a golf cart on Tybee Island?
Yes. Minimum insurance of $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident bodily injury and $15,000 property damage is required for all motorized carts.
Can you drive a golf cart on the beach at Tybee Island?
No. Golf carts are not allowed on the beach, sidewalks, or bike paths on Tybee Island.
Related Resources
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LSV Only. Local rules and where to drive.
Permitted. Local rules and where to drive.
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