Michigan Legislature Enacts Law Increasing the Population Limit for Villages, Cities, and Townships Eligible to Authorize Golf Cart Operation on Local Streets

On July 21, 2026, Governor Whitmer signed House Bill 4644 of 2026 into law, which adopts an amendment to the Michigan Vehicle Code (the “MVC”), increasing the population limit for communities eligible to allow the use of golf carts on their public streets.  The amendment to the MVC is reflected in Public Act 73 of 2026 (“PA 73”).  Before enactment of PA 73, villages, cities, and townships with populations of 30,000 or less could opt to authorize the use of golf carts on local streets through ordinances.  PA 73 has expanded that option so that villages, cities, and townships with populations fewer than 65,000 are now eligible to authorize golf cart operation on local streets.  Importantly, PA 73 does not require municipalities that fall within the population limit to allow golf cart operation on local streets.

If your village, city, or township falls within the population limit and is interested in allowing golf carts on its local streets, it may now do so subject to certain requirements in the MVC.  Please contact a lawyer in our Local Government Practice Group if you have any questions about PA 73 or would like assistance with preparing a golf cart ordinance.