Golf Cart Rules & Regulations in Birch Bay

Operation of golf carts in Birch Bay is governed by Washington State and Whatcom County regulations.

Note: This is a general summary for informational purposes and is not legal advice. For complete information, please visit the state and county websites.

Important Reminders

• If you operate a golf cart on the road, you must follow all the same laws as driving a car. There are no exceptions—you can be ticketed just like a car driver.
• If your golf cart does not have turn signals, you must use hand signals.

What Qualifies as a Golf Cart?

A “golf cart” is a gas-powered or electric four-wheeled vehicle originally designed for use on a golf course, with a top speed of 20 mph or less. Golf carts are not considered nonhighway or off-road vehicles.

Where Can I Drive My Golf Cart?

• Only on approved roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less.
• Refer to our golf cart zone map for details. Official county maps are also available here.

Who Can Operate a Golf Cart?

• Only licensed drivers may operate a golf cart.
• You must carry your driver’s license while operating a golf cart.

Rules for Drivers

• Golf cart drivers are subject to all the same rules, duties, and responsibilities as car drivers.
• If your golf cart lacks turn signals or brake lights, use hand signals. See instructions here.
• Seat belts are required—you can be ticketed if not wearing one.

Operating at Night

Golf carts may not be driven between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise.

Registration & Insurance

• No county registration is currently required, but your golf cart must meet all safety requirements.
• Insurance is not required by law, but it is highly recommended. Without insurance, you could be liable for major costs if involved in an accident.

Accidents

Accidents involving golf carts must be reported in compliance with RCW 46.52. Reports must indicate the vehicle involved is a golf cart in a golf cart zone.

Road & Parking Guidelines

• Drive on the road like a regular vehicle. Pull to the shoulder only to let other vehicles pass—do not drive on the shoulder.
• Parking rules are the same as cars: park in designated spaces only. Illegal parking may result in towing.

Alcohol, Marijuana & Golf Carts

• All laws applying to cars also apply to golf carts.
• No DUI or open containers—driving under the influence can result in arrest, fines, and license suspension.
• Do not risk your life or the lives of others—never operate a golf cart while intoxicated.

Golf Cart Equipment Requirements

Golf carts operating in the Birch Bay Golf Cart Zone must meet the following Washington State safety standards.

Note: This is a general summary for informational purposes and is not legal advice. For complete information, please visit the state and county websites.

Required Safety Equipment

Your golf cart must be equipped with the following:

• Seat Belts – Seat belts are required for all passengers, regardless of seating position, and must be worn whenever the cart is in motion. It’s recommended that belts be anchored to the frame.
• Mirrors – At minimum, a left side mirror and a center rearview mirror are required. A right side mirror is strongly recommended. If using a full-length center mirror, it must provide a clear, unobstructed 180° view.
• Reflectors – Reflector requirements are set forth in RCW 46.37.030(2
  • At least two red reflectors mounted between 15″ and 72″ high, visible at night from 600 to 100 feet away when illuminated by headlights.
  • Recommended: eight 3″ reflectors total
    • Four amber (front and forward sides)
    • Four red (rear and rear sides)
  • Large tractor-style rear reflectors are encouraged for added visibility.

⚠️ Night Operation: Golf carts are not allowed to operate at night unless equipped with headlights and taillights that meet state requirements.

Speed Requirement

To qualify as a golf cart under RCW 46.04.1945, the vehicle must not exceed 20 mph over a one-mile distance.

Power Source

Golf carts may be gas-powered or electric-powered.

Vehicle Definition

Quads, ATVs, and other off-road vehicles do not qualify as golf carts.

A “golf cart” is a gas-powered or electric-powered four-wheeled vehicle originally designed for use on a golf course for sporting purposes and capable of a speed of no more than 20 mph in one mile (RCW 46.04.365).

Customizations & Modifications

• Allowed: Custom wheels, stereos, and electronics, as long as the cart continues to meet all safety, speed, and street-use requirements.
• Not Recommended: Lift kits or oversized wheels/tires, as they can make the cart unstable and more prone to tipping.
• Prohibited: Lights that do not meet state requirements (e.g., blue or purple lights) or lights mounted in non-approved locations.