Vanderburgh County ATV And Golf Cart Laws Explained For 2026

Warmer weather means more people will be dusting off their off-road vehicles and golf carts, and the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office wants you to know the rules before you hit the road.

The Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners has previously authorized Off-Road Vehicles and ATVs to operate on certain roadways in Vanderburgh County outside the corporate limits of Evansville and Darmstadt. In August 2025, golf carts were also approved for use inside residential subdivisions in those same unincorporated areas.

Before you roll out, here's what you need to know.

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Where Off-Road Vehicles And Golf Carts Are Allowed

Off-road vehicles may operate on certain county roadways, but cannot be driven on sidewalks, walking paths, state highways, or federal highways.

Golf carts have even more restrictions. They are only allowed on local streets within major residential subdivisions in the county and may not cross roadways outside of a subdivision.

Both are required to yield to pedestrians, bicyclists, and regular motor vehicles.

Equipment And Safety Requirements

All off-road vehicles and golf carts must have:

• Headlights
• Taillights
• Fully functional brakes

After sunset, they must have two headlights and two taillamps. Golf carts are also required to have a rear-view mirror.

Open containers are prohibited.

Operators must follow all applicable Indiana state laws and may not operate the vehicle in a reckless or unsafe manner.

Read More: New Indiana Law Means Some Drivers Must Update Their Registration

Age, Licensing, And Insurance Rules

Off-road vehicle operators must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license.

Golf cart operators must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license.

No one under the age of 14 is allowed to ride on a public street unless accompanied by an adult.

Both vehicles require liability insurance, and operators must carry proof of insurance while operating.

Golf carts do not require registration, but off-road vehicles must be registered through the Indiana BMV.

Helmet Law And Penalties

Anyone under 18 operating or riding on an off-road vehicle must wear a DOT-approved helmet.

Violations of the county ordinance carry fines starting at $75 for a first offense and increasing up to $750 for a third offense.

You can review the full ordinance on the Vanderburgh County Sheriff's website.