Residents in Sylvan Lake, Alberta, now have a seasonal option for getting around town as the official Golf Cart Program is officially underway for the 2026 season. Running from April 14 through September 30, the initiative allows locals to use golf carts on designated municipal roadways as part of a provincial pilot project.
The Town of Sylvan Lake received approval for the project from the province on March 2, 2026. To participate, residents must obtain a town permit, which requires a $100 annual fee and proof of at least $2,000,000 in liability insurance. Carts must be equipped with several safety features, including working headlights, taillights, brake lights, signal lights, and seat belts.
While the program offers a new way to travel, there are specific rules in place. The use of golf carts is restricted to residents of the town and does not extend to neighboring summer villages or counties. Operators are required to hold a valid driver’s license and be at least 14 years of age. All drivers must follow provincial traffic rules, including restrictions on impaired driving, and must not exceed a speed of 40 km/h.
Carts are permitted only on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less and are prohibited on major routes including Highway 20, Highway 11A, Memorial Trail, and 60 Street. However, drivers can cross these restricted roads at designated points, such as the intersections at Lakeway Boulevard and Springfield Boulevard, or Crestview Boulevard and the Meadowlands Golf Course.
Currently, the program is limited to residential use. On March 12, 2026, the Sylvan Lake Town Council directed town administration to request an exemption from the province that would allow for commercial use of golf carts as well. For more information on the permit process and safety requirements, residents can visit the official project page.
