If you’ve spent any time cruising around Cocoa Beach, you’ve probably noticed something fun and uniquely Florida—golf carts zipping through local streets, taking residents and visitors to the beach, a restaurant, or just around the neighborhood. But are they actually allowed in residential areas? And what are the rules?

Let’s dig into what you need to know about golf cart laws, neighborhood restrictions, and lifestyle perks when it comes to owning and using a golf cart in Cocoa Beach.

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Yes, Golf Carts Are Allowed—With Conditions

The short answer is yes—golf carts are permitted on certain roads and in many neighborhoods in Cocoa Beach. But, as with most things, there are important regulations to follow to ensure you’re cruising legally and safely.

Cocoa Beach follows both Florida state laws and local ordinances regarding golf cart use. These laws distinguish between standard golf carts and Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)—which are similar but have different requirements.

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Understanding the Difference: Golf Cart vs. LSV

Before hitting the road, it’s essential to know what you’re driving:

• Golf Carts

  
  

  • Max speed: 20 mph

  
  

  • Not required to be registered with the DMV

  
  

  • Can only be driven on roads designated for golf cart use (usually roads with a speed limit of 25 mph or less)

  
  

  • Not allowed on sidewalks, major roads, or highways

• Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)

  • Max speed: 25 mph

  
  

  • Must be registered, insured, and street-legal (lights, turn signals, mirrors, seat belts, etc.)

  
  

  • Can be driven on any road with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or lower

  
  
  

If you want more freedom to drive through town or connect to other areas, an LSV might be your better bet. But for local beachside neighborhoods or communities with private roads, a standard golf cart can do the trick.

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Neighborhood Rules: It Varies by Community

Cocoa Beach is home to a mix of residential communities—from older beachside bungalows to newer subdivisions and gated communities—and each neighborhood may have its own golf cart policy.

• Many beachside neighborhoods are golf-cart friendly, especially those with easy access to A1A, Minutemen Causeway, and North Atlantic Avenue.

• Private communities or HOAs may have their own restrictions or safety rules, such as where golf carts can park, whether they’re allowed after dark, or age requirements for drivers.

• Vacation rental zones often embrace golf cart use as part of the lifestyle, especially for tourists looking for a laid-back way to get to the beach or downtown.

Before purchasing or renting a golf cart, it’s a good idea to check with your HOA or the city for up-to-date rules specific to your address.

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Safety and Legal Requirements

Even if your neighborhood allows golf carts, there are a few key regulations to follow:

• Drivers must be at least 14 years old to operate a golf cart on designated roads.

• Riding after dark? Your cart must have proper lighting—headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and reflectors.

• Stay off sidewalks and bike paths. Even though it might be tempting, these areas are typically off-limits.

• Avoid major roads, especially A1A or SR 520 unless your vehicle is a registered LSV and the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less.

Police in Cocoa Beach do enforce these rules, particularly in busy seasons when pedestrian and vehicle traffic spikes.

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The Lifestyle Perk: More Than Just Transportation

Let’s be real—golf carts are fun, and they’ve become a defining part of the Cocoa Beach lifestyle. They’re perfect for quick beach runs, heading to a local restaurant, or just enjoying the salty air without hopping into a full-sized car.

Plus, for homeowners and real estate investors, golf cart-friendly neighborhoods can be a big selling point. Buyers love the convenience, and vacation renters are often drawn to properties that include or allow golf carts for their stay.

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Final Thoughts

Golf carts are absolutely allowed in many Cocoa Beach neighborhoods—but understanding the type of cart, local regulations, and safety laws is key to staying compliant and having a good time.

Whether you're a full-time resident or just enjoying your beach home part-time, a golf cart adds to the laid-back charm Cocoa Beach is known for. Just make sure you're driving smart, staying safe, and respecting local rules.