Golf carts make a round of golf more enjoyable, providing convenience and efficiency while navigating the course. However, proper golf cart etiquette ensures you respect the course, other players, and safety guidelines. At Legends on Lake LBJ, we pride ourselves on maintaining a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, but we also appreciate players who take care of the course.
From parking near the greens to following cart path rules, here’s everything you need to know about golf cart etiquette.
Respecting Golf Cart Parking Etiquette at Legends
Legends on Lake LBJ embraces a relaxed approach to the game while still upholding respect for the course. Our golf cart parking guidelines are simple yet essential for maintaining the greens and fairways:
Stay at Least 30 Feet (10 Yards) Away from the Green
Keeping carts at a distance from the green preserves the delicate grass and prevents unnecessary wear. Parking too close can cause soil compaction, which affects the green’s condition over time. As a general rule, always stop your cart at least 30 feet away and walk to your ball.
Follow Cart Path Rules
While Legends hasn’t enforced a "cart-path-only" policy in over a decade, many courses require it in certain conditions. If you ever play on a course with this rule, be sure to park on the designated path and walk to your ball. Understanding where to play golf can also help determine if a course is more lenient or strict about cart usage.
Avoid Fringe and Apron Areas
The fringe and apron areas surrounding the green are delicate and can be damaged by excessive cart traffic. Keeping carts off these areas helps maintain smooth, playable surfaces for approach shots and putts.
Look for Signs and Ropes
Some areas may have ropes or signs indicating where carts should stop. Always follow these markers to prevent damage to the most sensitive parts of the course.
Use Common Sense in Soft or Wet Conditions
Even though Legends’ drainage system is top-notch, wet conditions can make certain areas vulnerable to damage. If the ground feels soft or muddy, park farther away to prevent tire marks and ruts.
Keep the Pace of Play in Mind
Slow play can frustrate golfers and delay the entire round. Using your golf cart efficiently helps keep the game moving.
- Be Ready to Go – Consider your club selection before driving to your next shot.
- Drop Off and Walk – If your playing partner’s ball is on the other side of the fairway, drop them off and continue to your own shot rather than waiting.
- Park Strategically – After putting, park the cart toward the back or side of the green in the direction of the next hole. This prevents unnecessary delays.
For more tips on keeping play efficient, check out our guide to ready golf and how it speeds up the game for everyone.
Follow Basic Safety Rules
Golf carts may seem harmless, but they can be dangerous if not handled properly. Keep these key safety rules in mind:
- Drive at a Safe Speed – While it may be tempting to zip around, excessive speed can lead to accidents, especially on steep or uneven terrain.
- Avoid Sharp Turns and Sudden Stops – Quick movements can make passengers lose balance or even tip the cart.
- Use Designated Paths – Stick to the course's established paths to prevent unnecessary damage to fairways and roughs.
- No Standing While Moving – Passengers should remain seated while the cart is in motion to avoid falls or injuries.
- Be Cautious on Hills – Reduce speed when going downhill and avoid sudden braking to maintain control.
Respect Other Golfers on the Course
A golf course is a shared space, and being considerate of other players enhances everyone's experience.
- Minimize Noise – Keep voices down when driving past other golfers who are setting up their shots.
- Don't Drive Too Close to Players – Avoid bringing the cart near a golfer in mid-swing.
- Be Mindful in Tournament Play – If participating in a golf tournament, be extra courteous and adhere to event-specific cart rules.
Good golf cart etiquette enhances your experience and helps preserve the course for future players. By parking properly, keeping pace, following safety rules, respecting others, and being mindful of the setting, you contribute to a smooth, enjoyable round for everyone.
Next time you play at Legends on Lake LBJ, remember these guidelines and enjoy the freedom of a course that hasn’t enforced a "cart-path-only" rule in over a decade!