They’re not just for the golf course anymore in Elkhart.
Elkhart County residents can now drive their golf carts and other low-speed vehicles on unincorporated, less-traveled roads. Elkhart County commissioners approved amending the traffic code to allow them Monday, according to the Elkhart Truth.
Residents supporting the change have fought on-and-off for about 10 years. Elkhart County Commissioner Mike Yoder acknowledged that, while the push was from a small group at first, that supporters have been “very persistent.” He sees the need for golf carts in residential areas, around schools, and athletic facilities. He also sees golf carts as an alternative to vehicles.
Under the amended traffic code, golf cart drivers must be 16 or older, have a driver’s license and insurance, and avoid driving on state highways and numbered count roads. You also can’t drive a golf cart on:
• Mishawaka Road
• North, south, east and west county line roads
• Ash Road
• Old C.R. 17
• Old U.S. 20
• Old U.S. 33
You can cross state highways and numbered county roads, but not on sidewalks or bike paths. Also, the golf carts can only be driving in the daytime on less-traveled roads.
