LUA- information

Approved LSV

7/23/2025

Dear Residents and Visitors of Sodus Point,

We hope this letter finds you well and enjoying your time in our beautiful Village. I am writing to address growing questions and concerns regarding the legality of driving golf carts on public roads within the Village of Sodus Point.

Understanding the Law: Golf Carts vs. Low-Speed Vehicles

New York State law does not permit traditional golf carts to be operated on public roads. While they may appear similar to certain street-legal vehicles, golf carts are not classified or equipped as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) under state law.

Per Section 102.10 of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law, a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) is defined as a four-wheeled vehicle, with a top speed of more than 20 miles per hour but not more than 25 miles per hour, that meets federal safety standards including:

• Seat belts
• Headlights and taillights
• Turn signals
• Mirrors
• Windshields
• VIN number
• Registration and insurance

These vehicles must be registered and insured with the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles and are the only type of cart-like vehicles currently permitted to operate legally on public roads.

Status of Local Law on Golf Carts

To allow golf carts on certain roadways would require a local law amendment. While we understand the popularity and convenience of golf carts, no such law has been passed yet, and as such, driving a traditional golf cart on the road remains illegal at this time.

Clarification on Agricultural Use – Section 43 of Agriculture & Markets Law

Some residents have asked whether golf carts fall under the exemption for slow-moving vehicles found in Section 43 of the Agriculture & Markets Law. This exemption only applies to farm vehicles used directly in the course of farm-related activities such as transporting equipment or products between fields and barns. It does not apply to personal or recreational use of golf carts or any non-farm vehicles.

Moving Forward

The Village is committed to public safety, legal compliance, and finding reasonable solutions for local transportation needs. We respectfully request that only properly registered and insured Low-Speed Vehicles be driven on our roads.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to ensure a safe and legally compliant environment for all.

If you have further questions, please contact the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office at (315) 946-9711.

Sincerely,
Bill Kallusch
Mayor, Village of Sodus Point