Message From the Wildwood City Manager Jason McHugh

Wildwood Police Department Launches Free Golf Cart Safety Classes and Registration Program

The City of Wildwood just updated its golf cart and low-speed vehicle ordinance, to ensure consistency with current state law and align with partnering agencies and jurisdictions. While this update did not change any existing rules or regulations within the City of Wildwood, the Wildwood Police Department is taking proactive steps to help educate and inform residents. The department is proud to introduce two new community initiatives: a free Golf Cart Safety Class and the Golf Cart Motor Vehicle Index (GCMVI) registration program. These initiatives are designed to educate drivers, promote responsible operation, and enhance public safety.

The Golf Cart Safety Class is designed for both new and experienced operators and provides practical information about safely operating a golf cart or LSV. Participants will learn about local and Florida laws governing golf carts and low-speed vehicles, the differences between the two, required equipment, where they are legally permitted to operate, right-of-way rules on multi-modal paths, and how to safely share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. The class also covers important traffic signs, lane markings, licensing requirements, and best practices for safe operation.

The first class will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Warfield Auditorium, 98 S. Warfield Ave. Registration is required and can be completed by emailing [email protected].

In addition to the safety classes, the Wildwood Police Department is launching the Golf Cart Motor Vehicle Index (GCMVI), a free registration program that provides an added layer of safety and security for golf cart owners. Registered golf carts are entered into a secure database maintained by the Police Department and receive a unique identification number displayed on a placard.

The program offers several important benefits. In the event of a medical emergency, first responders can quickly identify a registered golf cart owner if they are unable to communicate. Registration also improves the likelihood of recovering a lost or stolen golf cart. Because golf carts are not required to be state registered and typically do not have Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), the GCMVI database provides law enforcement with a reliable way to identify a golf cart and return it to its registered owner.

Residents may register their golf cart during any official Golf Cart Safety Class or by scheduling an appointment with the Wildwood Police Department by calling 352-330-1355. Participation is free and voluntary. Future class dates will be announced on the Wildwood Police Department’s website and social media pages.

Sincerely,

Jason McHugh

City Manager

City of Wildwood