ERIEAU, Ont. — Golf carts will soon be allowed on the roads in Erieau as part of a pilot program recently approved by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent said the program, set to launch in the summer of 2025, will permit golf carts to operate on public roads within the community under specific licensing and safety requirements. The initiative is part of the province’s Golf Cart Pilot Program under the Highway Traffic Act, which is intended to evaluate how carts can be safely integrated with other vehicles.
Chatham-Kent joins Amherstburg, Lakeshore, Huron-Kinloss and Pelee Township in participating.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Erieau residents and visitors to enjoy a new, convenient way to get around the community, while ensuring safety remains the top priority,” said Coun. Trevor Thompson.
“We appreciate the Province’s support in making Erieau part of this pilot program, and will continue to advocate for its expansion into other locations within Chatham-Kent.”
The program will cover all of Erieau, including the built-up area along Erieau Road and Ross Lane. Carts will only be allowed on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less, and all roads in the program area meet that requirement. Operation will be permitted annually between April 1 and Nov. 30, with the provincial pilot continuing until June 3, 2031.
Drivers will need at least a G-class licence, and carts can carry up to six people or the number of available seats, whichever is fewer. Passengers must be at least eight years old. Vehicles must have four wheels and be equipped with a steering wheel, rear-view mirror, slow-moving vehicle sign, turn signals, brake lights, daytime running lights, headlights for night use, and reflectors.
Golf carts must follow all traffic laws and remain within the designated program boundaries. They will not be permitted on roads outside the zone, on routes with speed limits above 50 km/h, or in parks and trails except for driveways and parking lots.
Signage will be posted at entry and exit points in Erieau as well as at trail and park entrances to clearly mark where golf carts are allowed.
Permits will be required annually and can be obtained through the municipality’s website, which also provides full details on safety guidelines and applications. More information is also available on the Ministry of Transportation’s website.
