For many golfers, power carts add a layer of convenience and enjoyment to their round. Yet, as helpful as these vehicles are, their misuse can cause frustration among players, headaches for course staff, and even lasting damage to the greens and fairways. Power cart etiquette, while seemingly straightforward, has become a hotbed of controversy due to a few recurring issues that all players should be mindful of.
Golf power carts are motorized vehicles designed to transport players and their equipment around the golf course. These compact carts typically seat two passengers and feature space in the back for golf bags, making them a convenient option for players who prefer not to walk the course. Equipped with electric or gas-powered engines, power carts are particularly beneficial on courses with long distances between holes, hilly terrain, or for golfers with physical limitations.
Power carts are typically available for rent at the golf course you’re playing. Most courses offer rental options at the pro shop or clubhouse, where you can inquire about rates and policies. Fees for power cart rentals vary, often depending on the course, the duration of your round, and whether you’re playing alone or with a partner.
It’s always a good idea to reserve a cart when booking your tee time, especially during peak hours or on popular courses. If you’re unsure about availability, course staff will be happy to guide you through the process and inform you of any specific cart rules in place, such as cart path-only restrictions or handicap accessibility options. There’s an etiquette to push carts on the golf course, and similar rules apply to power carts.
Cart Path Only: A Necessary Inconvenience
Few rules on the course spark as much grumbling as “cart path only.” While some golfers see it as an unnecessary hassle, this rule is invoked only when absolutely necessary, often to protect soft or under-construction fairways. Complaining about this policy not only signals inexperience but also a lack of understanding about course maintenance.
Driving off the designated paths—even when no one appears to be watching—leaves visible damage that frustrates green staff and jeopardizes the course’s condition for everyone. Golfers who argue that their green fee entitles them to drive wherever they want should remember: staff would rather reschedule your round or direct you to another course than deal with the aftermath of your disregard for the rules. Those who just want to take something out for a joy ride should check out street-legal golf carts instead.
The Special Case of Handicap Carts
Handicap-accessible carts are another point of contention on the course. These carts, which are allowed closer to the greens for players with mobility challenges, fulfill a critical need. However, seeing them in use sometimes tempts others to follow suit. For those without special permissions, it’s important to resist the urge to shortcut to the green.
The greens are a sacred part of the course, and the privilege of driving close to them is granted only to those who genuinely require it. Golfers should mind their own play and trust the marshals to handle any issues. Respecting this rule ensures the course remains in great condition for all players.
Power Carts Are Not Garbage Cans
Perhaps one of the most easily avoided faux pas is treating your power cart like a mobile trash bin. Every tee box is equipped with garbage bins—use them. Leaving a cart littered with wrappers, empty cans, and other rubbish is not only inconsiderate to the back-shop crew who clean it but also reflects poorly on you as a player.
Maintaining your cart throughout the round is a small but meaningful way to show respect for the course and its staff. A clean, well-kept cart or golf cart bag signals your appreciation for the game and the effort it takes to make each round enjoyable.
Etiquette is the True Driving Force
Power carts are a privilege, not a right, and their proper use plays a significant role in preserving the integrity of the game. By adhering to the rules—whether it’s respecting cart path-only restrictions, understanding the necessity of handicap carts, or simply keeping your cart clean—you contribute to a positive experience for yourself, your fellow golfers, and the course staff.
Golf’s enduring appeal lies in its traditions of respect, courtesy, and camaraderie. Observing proper power cart etiquette ensures those values remain intact, reminding us all that the true power in golf is not in the cart, but in the respect we show for the game and each other.