The City of Douglas has been a designated Golf Cart Community since 2018. Motorized carts are allowed only on Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) approved areas within the city limits of Douglas.
The Douglas Police Department urges all citizens to follow safety guidelines when operating motorized or golf carts on city roadways. Officers will begin issuing warnings and/or citations to anyone operating motorized carts illegally on city streets or city property.
“During the spring and summer months, we often see children driving motorized carts on roadways,” says DPD Chief Brannen Pruette. “Our biggest concern is safety. We want to prevent any accidents involving carts or ATVs on the roadway.”
To operate a motorized cart on a GDOT‑approved city street, the cart must include the following safety features:
• Seatbelts and/or child restraints
• A flashing amber light visible from 500 feet
• A horn audible from 200 feet
• Proper exhaust
• Headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals
Carts that meet all required safety features must be registered with the City of Douglas Code Enforcement Office before being operated on approved streets. Drivers must hold a valid state‑issued driver’s license and follow all traffic laws. State law also requires that motorized carts weigh less than 1,300 pounds. Four‑wheelers, side‑by‑sides (such as Can‑Am or Rangers), and carts capable of exceeding 20 mph are not permitted on city streets. Motorized carts are only allowed on approved two‑lane roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. The State Route 206/Bowens Mill Road at Touchton Drive crossing is not approved due to its 55‑mph speed limit and lack of required connectivity.
Anyone violating the ordinance or operating a motorized cart illegally will receive a warning and/or citation. For a full copy of the ordinance and a map of approved motorized cart crossings, visit the Code Enforcement Office at City Hall (302 S. Madison Ave.) or visit www.cityofdouglasga.gov.
