Authorities Warn Holmes County Residents About Golf Cart Road Restrictions

On November 23, 2025, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, working with the Wayne County and Holmes County sheriff's offices, reminded residents that the operation of low speed under speed and utility type vehicles on public roadways is tightly restricted by state law. The advisory draws on Ohio Revised Code 4511.214 and clarifies where these vehicles may and may not be driven in Wayne and Holmes counties.

The guidance emphasizes that unless a township or municipality has passed an ordinance authorizing them, these vehicles are not permitted on public roads. Even where local ordinances allow limited operation, strict conditions apply. Most county and township roads are off limits. These vehicles may be driven only on roads posted 35 miles per hour or below and only if the specific jurisdiction has enacted an ordinance allowing such use.

The patrol and sheriff offices identified a list of roads that are not authorized for these vehicles, including U.S. 30 and U.S. 250, and state Routes 3, 83 and 39, along with most county highways. Crossing a higher speed road at an intersection is allowed, but traveling along a higher speed road is not permitted. The advisory warns that improper operation creates significant traffic risks because these vehicles are not built for highway speeds or heavy traffic, and crashes can result in severe injury or death.

The notice also set out legal and equipment requirements for any authorized use. A valid driver's license is required to operate these vehicles on a public roadway. Unlicensed operation is a traffic offense that will result in a mandatory court appearance, and the vehicle may be towed at the operator's expense. Vehicles must meet inspection and equipment standards before being operated legally. Required equipment includes lights, mirrors, turn signals, seat belts and a slow moving vehicle emblem. Vehicles also must be properly registered and insured.

For Holmes County residents, the practical consequence is that neighborhood or farm use will often remain restricted unless local government action changes the rules. Residents who want expanded access need to consult their township trustees or municipal council to learn whether an ordinance exists or to advocate for one. For questions about enforcement or the rules that apply in a particular area, residents were directed to contact the Wooster Highway Patrol Post, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office or the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office.