DRIVERS are being slapped with instant $100 fines in a citywide crackdown on public roads.
Frustrated residents have begged police to “leave us alone” as officers hand out the tickets.
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Police in Livonia, Michigan, are warning golf cart owners that they’ll get in trouble for riding on public roads.
Golf carts aren’t allowed on public roads and sidewalks, according to state law.
As the tiny vehicles have become popular in the city, located in the western suburbs of Detroit, the Livonia Police Department warned residents that they’re serious about enforcing the rules.
“While golf carts may seem like a convenient way to get around the neighborhood, they are not legal for use on Livonia’s streets or sidewalks,” LPD wrote on Facebook.
“Our officers will take enforcement action against violations.”
The civil infraction carries a $100 fine, police said.
RESIDENTS OUTRAGED
Livonia residents were quick to blast the crackdown.
“I honestly think [the police] have nothing better to do, resident Nick Copperstone told ABC affiliate WXYZ.
“There are better things for them to be doing.”
“I thought it was ridiculous,” resident Donna Strauch told the outlet.
“They should do more with the crotch rockets that go up and down the expressway and the freeways fast, zipping in and out of traffic.”
A disgruntled Facebook user wrote, “So you guys can drive your golf cart around but everyone else is illegal? LPD is above the Law?”
Some residents say they’ve been using golf carts for years and have never gotten in trouble before now.
“I just like to drive around the neighborhood,” resident Thomas Crowley told WXYZ, adding that he grew up in the neighborhood.
“I’ve gone opposite direction of police officers and they’ve waved at me and smiled. I’ve never had a problem.”
Livonia Police Department’s statement
The Livonia Police Department reminded residents that golf carts aren’t allowed on public streets in their city.
As summer fun is in full swing, the Livonia Police Department would like to remind all residents that operation of golf carts on public roads or sidewalks is strictly prohibited within the City of Livonia.
While golf carts may seem like a convenient way to get around the neighborhood, they are not legal for use on Livonia’s streets or sidewalks. Our officers will take enforcement action against violations. This is a civil infraction and carries a fine of $100.
Please help keep our community safe by keeping golf carts off city streets and sidewalks. Let’s all enjoy summer responsibly!
Source: LPD
To add insult to injury, golf carts are allowed in some other Michigan neighborhoods.
GOLF CART-FRIENDLY CITIES
According to the state’s law, golf carts are allowed on public roads in communities with populations under 30,000 people.
However, communities have to pass specific ordinances to allow them.
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They can only be operated on roads with speed limits under 30 mph.
Some small Michigan cities that allow golf carts on public roads include South Haven, Union City, and Beaver Island.
New driving laws in 2025
Drivers across the United States are having to adjust to a slew of new road rules that take effect in 2025. Some of those include:
Despite frustrations from some Michiganders, other Livonia residents are grateful to have the carts off the streets.
“Thanks LPD! I was beginning to think perhaps Country Homes Sub built a new golf course, – after almost having a head on collision on my street with a golf cart,” one resident wrote on Facebook.
Another slammed on YouTube, “Golf carts on the road are so obnoxious and the people who drive them are worse.”
Livonia is home to over 90,000 people about 20 miles northwest of downtown Detroit.
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