Carolina Beach Golf Cart Laws (2026)
Carolina Beach, North Carolina golf cart laws: Restricted (20 mph max, age 16+). Where to drive, rental info, and local ordinances.
Key Facts
Overview
Carolina Beach is in the middle of phasing out non-LSV golf carts. A standard golf cart still needs a town permit, but since July 1, 2023 only owners who had a permit in the previous calendar year may renew. No new golf cart applicants are accepted, and all golf cart permits end December 31, 2027. Beginning January 1, 2028, only state-registered Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) will be allowed on public streets. LSVs do not need a town driving permit, but they do need state registration, plate, insurance, and any required parking pass.
Carolina Beach Local Rules
How Carolina Beach rules differ from North Carolina state law
- Standard golf carts need a Carolina Beach permit to operate in town
- The annual golf cart permit fee is $100
- Since July 1, 2023, only previous-year permit holders may renew; no new golf cart permit applicants are allowed
- Golf cart permit sales end December 31, 2027
- Beginning January 1, 2028, only state-registered LSVs will be permitted on streets
- Golf carts and LSVs may operate only on roads posted 35 mph or less
- Golf carts are not state registered; LSVs have a state license plate and state registration
- LSVs do not need a town permit to drive on streets, but annual LSV parking passes are available
- Golf cart and LSV parking passes cost $100 annually
- Operators must follow all town parking rules and use legal spaces
Where to Drive in Carolina Beach
- Lake Park Boulevard - check posted speeds by section before using a cart or LSV
- Carolina Beach Avenue North and South - common beach-access routes with local parking rules
- Canal Drive - parking office area and marina access; obey posted speed and parking signs
- Street-end parking spaces - many allow annual LSV/golf cart parking passes
- Boardwalk and pedestrian areas - not cart routes
- Roads posted over 35 mph - off-limits except for legal crossings where allowed
Street-Legal Equipment
Common equipment needed to make your golf cart street-legal in North Carolina. Requirements vary by locality - check your local regulations.
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Tips for Driving in Carolina Beach
- If you do not already have a renewable Carolina Beach golf cart permit, plan around an LSV instead
- The 2028 sunset is the key buying decision. A standard golf cart is a short-term option only for grandfathered permit holders
- If renting or buying, ask whether the vehicle is a true state-registered LSV with a plate
- The town parking pass and the right to drive are separate issues for LSVs. Make sure you understand both
- Paid parking is enforced seasonally, and golf carts/LSVs can still receive parking citations
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about golf cart laws in Carolina Beach, North Carolina.
Can you drive a golf cart in Carolina Beach?
Only if the cart has a valid town permit. Since July 1, 2023, only owners who held a permit in the previous calendar year may renew, and no new golf cart permit applicants are accepted.
Are golf carts being banned in Carolina Beach?
Yes, for standard non-LSV golf carts on public streets. Golf cart permits end December 31, 2027, and beginning January 1, 2028 only state-registered LSVs will be allowed.
Do LSVs need a Carolina Beach permit?
No. A state-registered LSV does not need a town permit to drive on Carolina Beach streets, but you may need a parking pass or paid parking depending on where you park.
How much is a Carolina Beach golf cart permit?
The town lists a $100 annual permit fee for grandfathered golf carts. Annual LSV/golf cart parking passes are also listed at $100.
Where can golf carts and LSVs drive in Carolina Beach?
They are limited to roads with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less and must follow town traffic and parking rules.
Related Resources
Full state law overview, equipment, and registration.
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Permitted. Local rules and where to drive.
Permitted. Local rules and where to drive.
LSV Only. Local rules and where to drive.
