City of Shelbyville launches golf cart ordinance and registration process

The City of Shelbyville has enacted a new ordinance regulating the use of golf carts and recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) on designated public roadways within the city limits.

The ordinance, which went into effect earlier this year, outlines safety, registration and operational requirements for residents who wish to operate these vehicles legally within Shelbyville.

Under the ordinance, golf carts and ROVs may be driven on certain city streets, but not on state roads, sidewalks, trails, or non-designated public rights-of-way. The law applies only within the city limits of Shelbyville, and does not replace or fulfill requirements in other municipalities throughout Shelby County. Residents are encouraged to verify jurisdiction boundaries using the Shelby County GIS map before operating their vehicles.

The ordinance is designed to improve safety and provide structure for recreational vehicle use in residential neighborhoods and on city-maintained roads. Operators must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license or state-issued photo ID. Additionally, all vehicles must be insured and display a city-issued registration decal.

To be eligible for registration, golf carts must meet minimum safety equipment requirements, including:

Headlights and brake lights

Turn signals

A slow-moving vehicle sign

A full rearview mirror

Seat belts for each occupant

Vehicles classified as All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), 3-wheelers, 4-wheelers, or slow-moving utility vehicles do not qualify under this ordinance and are not permitted on city streets, except where otherwise allowed by Indiana Code.

Registered golf carts may only be operated between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., must not exceed 20 mph, and must follow all traffic laws, including yielding to pedestrians and other vehicles. Operators are not permitted to carry more passengers than the manufacturer’s designated capacity, and all passengers must be seated in designated seats while the vehicle is moving.

To register a golf cart, residents must complete an online application. After submission, the Shelbyville Police Department will contact applicants to schedule a required vehicle inspection. Upon passing inspection, registrants must bring the signed approval form, proof of insurance, a valid driver’s license or ID, and a $50 registration fee to the Shelbyville Police Department. Accepted forms of payment include cash, credit card, money order, or cashier’s check. Personal checks are not accepted.

Once registration is finalized, owners will receive a decal that must be placed on the rear of the vehicle.

Law enforcement officers are authorized to enforce the ordinance and may request proof of registration, insurance, or identification at any time. Fines for violations range from $300 to $3,000, depending on the nature of the offense. Vehicles found in violation may also be towed or impounded.

For full ordinance details, a summary of safety regulations, or to begin the registration process, residents may visit www.shelbyville.in.gov/golfcart or call the Shelbyville Police Department at (317) 392-5108.

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