McKenzie Police Department Reminds Residents of Golf Cart, UTV Guidelines

McKenzie Police Department (MPD) issued this reminder to residents of state and local ordinances regarding the use of golf carts and side-by-sides on public roadways.

MPD shared the following information:
With warmer weather arriving, we are seeing an increase in complaints regarding golf carts and side-by-sides operating on public roadways. Please review the following guidelines to ensure compliance with Tennessee law and local ordinances. Failure to comply with state laws or local city ordinances can lead to citations and fines.

General Requirements: Any vehicle operated on city streets must be properly registered and driven by an individual who is at least 16 years of age and holds a valid Class D driver’s license.

Roadway Restrictions: Low- and medium-speed vehicles are not permitted on higher-speed roadways, including: Highland Avenue (Hwy. 79), Magnolia (Hwy. 124), Cedar (Hwy. 124), Old McKenzie Road (Hwy. 124), Highway 22 and Highway 436.

Side-by-Sides (UTVs): Side-by-sides may be operated on roadways with posted speed limits of 45 miles per hour or less, provided they:

- Are properly registered (if required by local ordinance)

- Are operated by a licensed driver (age 16 or older)

- Meet all state equipment and safety requirements

Golf Carts on Tennessee Roadways
- Definition: A traditional golf cart is designed for golf course use and typically does not exceed 20 miles per hour.

- Street Legality: Golf carts are generally not allowed on public roads unless they are modified to meet Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) standards or are specifically permitted by local ordinance.

- LSV Requirements: Must include headlights, brake lights, turn signals, mirrors, seat belts and other required safety equipment, and must be registered.

- Local Use: Some municipalities allow limited golf cart use on roads with speed limits of 35 miles per hour or less, often restricted to daylight hours.

- Driver Requirements: Operators must be at least 16 years old; a valid driver’s license may be required depending on local rules.

Side-by-Sides (UTVs) on Tennessee Roadways
- Legality: UTVs (off-highway vehicles) may be operated on certain public roads if they comply with Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) requirements and local ordinances.

Required Equipment:
- Headlights, taillights, and brake lights

- Turn signals (front and rear)

- Mirrors

- Horn

- Brakes

- Seat belts and roll cage

- Windshield or approved eye protection

Operating Rules:

- Driver must be at least 16 with a valid license.

- Operation is typically limited to daylight hours.

- Restricted to roads with speed limits of 45 MPH or less.

Important Notes

- Local ordinances may be more restrictive than state law — always check your city or county regulations.

- Violations may result in citations, fines and potential liability in the event of an accident.