06/12/2026
Good evening, everyone.
There have been multiple posts and complaints on both Oak Forest and Acadiana neighborhood FB pages about golf carts, atvs, and dirt bikes being driven on our neighborhood streets, so I thought it might be valuable to provide residents with information on what Louisiana law says regarding this issue and possible consequences resulting from an accident caused by operation of one of these vehicles on a public roadway.
Louisiana law requires a valid full driver’s license (not a permit) to operate a golf cart on any public road that has been officially designated by the Parish for golf cart use. Most ATVs and dirt bikes are not street‑legal.
These vehicles require registration, insurance, and proper safety equipment, such as headlights, taillights, and brake lights.
Allowing minors to operate them on public roads puts your child and your household at serious risk. If there’s an accident, families can be held financially responsible, and insurance may not cover damages.
Law enforcement can issue citations and can impound the vehicle if it’s being operated illegally.