Think Golf Carts Are Street Legal in Colorado? Think Again

In Grand Junction, we saw great decorations and lots of fun costumes on Halloween night. While we expect to see people on sidewalks or even the street during trick-or-treat hours, I also saw plenty of people riding around in golf carts.

Is it legal to drive a regular golf cart on the street in Grand Junction?  Did you know local laws allow limited use on designated streets in three specific areas? Here's where ordinary golf carts can go, and what drivers need to know.

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Grand Junction Allows Golf Carts on Certain Streets, With Restrictions

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According to Grand Junction’s Municipal Code, a golf cart may be driven in three specific areas, excluding country roads and State or federal highways. This is how it appears in the code.

• The area is bounded on the west by 26 Road, on the east by 28 Road, on the south by Patterson Road, and on the north by H Road. Golf carts may be driven on 26 Road, 28 Road, and H Road, but are not permitted on Patterson Road or Horizon Drive.
• The intersection of Shadow Lake Road and Mariposa Road (but excluding Mariposa Road) along Ridges Boulevard to the west, continuing along West Ridges Boulevard and inclusive of all streets within the Redlands Mesa Planned Development.
• The area bounded on the west by Cannell Avenue, on the east by 13th Street, on the south by North Avenue, and on the north by Orchard Avenue.

What Equipment Does a Golf Cart Need to Be Legal in Grand Junction?

Who knew a golf cart could be so complicated? It needs more than headlights to qualify for limited street use in approved areas. City rules require a state-approved slow-moving vehicle triangle, rearview mirror, audible warning device, turn signals, headlights, taillights, steering wheel, foot-controlled accelerator, and foot brake. It needs to be insured to cover injuries and property damage.

What Happens If You Drive a Golf Cart Where It Isn't Allowed?

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Driving a golf cart on Grand Junction streets outside of approved zones can get you stopped by police. Once they make sure you are not intoxicated, they’ll want to check your permits and required safety equipment. It’s not a street-legal vehicle with registration. If you are driving it in an unapproved area, it’s hard to justify a warning. There will likely be a fine. Operating a golf cart on Patterson Road or North Avenue violates City Ordinance 10.04.109.9 Golf cart(s).