PLEASE NOTE: Only a registered Low Speed Vehicle (LSV), Mobility Device, or Modified Utility Vehicle (MUVs) can be driven on public streets. LSVs, Mobility Devices, and MUVs all DIFFERENT and are regulated differently. This section only contains information related to Mobility Devices. CLICK HERE for information on LSVs and MUVs.
According to Town Ordinance 28-38, golf carts that are not equipped and registered as a low speed vehicle may be operated by individuals with a mobility impairment
Golf carts MUST HAVE basic equipment supplied by the manufacturer, including a VIN or serial number, and all safety devices, including:
- A low speed caution triangle 12" or greater in size mounted on the rear of the vehicle and permanently installed.
- Rearview mirror
- One reflector per side (at least 3" in width and height)
- Parking brake
- Seat belts for all seating positions
- A windshield
- Maximum of 3 rows of seats
Similar to the traffic laws that govern LSV's, golf carts also CANNOT be operated on or alongside a public street with a posted speed limit greater than 35 miles per hour.
How To Register a Mobility Device
- Complete an Application for Permit to Operate a Mobility Device and submit it to the Oak Island Police Department; along with proof of ownership, a valid driver’s license and proof of Insurance.
- Read and Sign the Disclaimer of Liability on page 4 of the application, regarding the use and operation of golf carts as a Mobility Device.
- Bring the golf cart to the Police Department, so that an officer can inspect the cart, and confirm all modification requirements have been met.
- Once application is approved, a registration fee of $5.00 will be required before a permit decal can be issued.
- Once a permit decal has been issued, it should be be placed in the center of the reflective triangle that is mounted to the rear of the golf cart (see illustration).
All permits expire on December 31 of the year in which they are issued, and a new application and permit is required each year. The decal CANNOT be used for parking in designated town resident parking places (for information on obtaining a Town Parking Decal, CLICK HERE). Copies of the proof of ownership, liability insurance, and a signed Disclaimer of Liability must be in the cart at all times when in use on public property.
Drive-on Beach Access Locations
Under Town Ordinance 28-6: "person(s) who have been issued a state handicapped permit and / or a permanent handicapped registration plate and a permit issued by the town police department may operate an approved beach accessible vehicle on the beach in designated areas."
Designated areas and times are limited to:
- The last beach access on W Beach Drive and west to a point designated by signage reflecting no further vehicle traffic.
- From SE 58th Street to SE 69th Street
- From Dawn to Dusk
PLEASE NOTE: Even if you have a handicap plate or registration, an Application for Permit to Operate a Mobility Device is still required for on-beach use!
Operation is limited to the permit holder or their designated driver. Drivers are required to operate in a safe and prudent manner, and give way to pedestrians at all times, and give warning before starting, stopping, or turning the vehicle. Drivers should remain clear of the federally-protected turtle nesting areas. The number of passengers CANNOT exceed the design of the approved vehicle.
Mobility Devices operating within the Town of Oak Island:
- CANNOT Drive on the sidewalks
- CANNOT be powered by gasoline, diesel, or any fuel other than electric
- MUST be operated by a licensed driver (impaired driving laws also apply)
- CANNOT be driven on streets with a posted limit higher than 35 miles per hour
- CAN cross a road or street at an intersection where the road has a 45 mph speed limit
- MUST obey all seat belt and children’s car seat laws
- CANNOT be used to tow a trailer or wagon, unless also registered
