Golf Cart Etiquette: Tips From Our Head Golf Pro

Golf carts are a staple on the golf course, providing golfers with an easy way to navigate the track. However, with this convenience comes a responsibility to follow proper golf cart etiquette. Here are some tips from our Head Golf Pro, Keith Kelly, for being a courteous and safe golf cart driver:

Par 3’s = cart path only

On most golf courses, par 3’s are cart paths only. Never drive a golf cart on the grass on a par 3, no matter the course conditions or what’s allowed on other holes. Unless you have special permission to drive your cart on the grass on a par 3, assume you can’t.

Use two carts per foursome

The pandemic is over, so there aren’t many reasons a foursome should use four golf carts. Strive to use two carts per foursome, as multiple solo carts add a lot more stress to the turf and the root systems for trees.

Follow the rules set by the course for the day

Before you start your round of golf, check the rules set by the course for the day. Here are some general ones to be aware of:

• Cart path only – When the ‘cart path only’ rule is in effect, keep your golf cart on designated routes. Drive on the path to where you’re parallel to your golf ball, stop your cart, get out, grab a couple of clubs you may need, then walk out to your ball.

• 90 degrees – The ’90-degree rule’ means you may drive your golf cart onto the grass but only at a 90-degree angle from the cart path. Drive on the cart path until you are parallel to your ball, then make a 90-degree turn off the cart path and drive straight across to where it rests.

• Enter and exit posts – Look for the “Enter Here” and “Exit Here” markers along the cart paths. Follow them, and don’t drive beyond them. Note that the maintenance staff may periodically reposition the locations of these markers based on the amount of cart traffic.

Please don’t go there

It’s a well-known, unwritten rule, but worth restating. Never drive your golf cart onto tee boxes or 30 yards around a green. Also, if you notice wet ground, avoid driving on it, even if you’re permitted to drive on the course. When your golf cart slides, skids, or sinks, it causes immediate, lasting damage to the turf.

Declare cart damage

If you damage a golf cart, please inform a staff member of the problem. Being responsible for your actions is a courtesy to others. Plus, it helps ensure the next golfer using the cart will have a safe and reliable way to navigate the course.

Don’t drink and drive

Drinking and driving is never a good idea, regardless of the vehicle—cars, boats, or even golf carts. Never drive a golf cart if you’ve had too much to drink. While it may seem harmless, a golf cart is still a moving vehicle, and an accident in one could result in dire consequences. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Using a golf cart is a fun and convenient way to get around the course. However, not following the proper etiquette rules can ruin your or someone else’s day. Kindly follow our handy tips to help ensure that our championship course’s playing conditions remain top-notch and that everyone’s round on the course is the best it can be. We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you soon at Harbor Club. Don’t wait to play — book your tee time now.