Yes, a properly registered low speed vehicle (LSV) may travel on permitted Destin streets, but it cannot use every street or drive on the beach. The route from your vacation rental matters as much as the destination. The rules below cover LSVs used by visitors in Destin and nearby Walton County communities.
What qualifies as an LSV
Florida defines an LSV as a four-wheeled vehicle with a top speed greater than 20 mph but no greater than 25 mph. To operate on public roads, it must be titled, registered, insured, and equipped as required by state law. Required equipment includes headlights, brake lights, turn signals, taillights, reflectors, a parking brake, mirrors, a windshield, seat belts, and a vehicle identification number.
The 35 mph figure you may see in rental advertising refers to the posted speed limit on a road an LSV may generally use. It does not mean the LSV itself may travel at 35 mph. A driver must carry a valid driver license. Destin Golf Cart Rentals currently sets an additional rental rule: its drivers must be licensed and at least 25 years old.
Where may you drive in Destin
Florida generally allows an LSV on a street posted at 35 mph or less. State law allows it to cross a faster street at an intersection, but crossing does not authorize travel along that street. State and local agencies may prohibit LSVs on additional roads for safety.
Destin expressly prohibits LSV travel along US Highway 98 (Harbor Boulevard and Emerald Coast Parkway) and State Road 293 (Danny Wuerffel Way and Mid-Bay Bridge Road). The city says an LSV may cross US 98 only from an approved LSV road to another approved LSV road. Stay off sidewalks and pedestrian routes. Do not assume that a navigation app has chosen a route legal for an LSV.
What changes in Miramar Beach and along 30A
Miramar Beach and many 30A communities are in Walton County, outside the City of Destin. The Walton County Sheriff’s Office likewise prohibits LSV travel along US 98 and on sidewalks or bike paths. It says US 98 may be crossed only at a four-way intersection and publishes a map of prohibited road segments. Review that map and road signs when planning a Walton County route.
A private resort, condominium, or neighborhood may also restrict LSV entry, storage, or parking. Ask your vacation rental manager about property rules before booking. Even if the roads are legal, a private entrance or a parking restriction can make a particular trip impractical.
Can an LSV go on the beach
No. Destin prohibits vehicles on the beach. An LSV can take you to an accessible beach entry only if a legal route and authorized parking are available. Park in a space that permits the LSV, follow any payment or time limit, and walk to the sand. Neither an LSV rental nor beach access provides permission to drive over a walkover, dune, beach path, or shoreline.
Passengers and children
Use no more than the designated passenger capacity, with one seat and seat belt per rider. Children age 5 and younger generally need a federally approved child restraint under Florida law: a separate carrier or integrated child seat through age 3, and an approved carrier, integrated seat, or booster seat at ages 4 and 5, subject to the statute’s narrow exceptions. Ask the rental company whether your specific vehicle can safely accommodate the restraint you need. Never put a rider on a lap, step, or cargo area.
A practical route check before you rent
Start with the address of your lodging and the places you expect to visit. Trace every connecting road, including any crossing of US 98. Check posted speed limits and the local prohibited roads, then check whether your destination has legal LSV parking. Confirm private property rules with your host and the driver requirements with the rental company. If the route is uncertain, ask before paying; a destination being close on a map is not proof you can reach it by LSV.
Ask about your address
Destin Golf Cart Rentals offers six-passenger LSV rentals. Call 850-499-5252 with your lodging address and intended destinations to discuss availability, vehicle terms, and possible routes. Follow current signs and local restrictions when driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The city expressly prohibits LSV travel along US 98. A crossing is allowed only between approved LSV roads at an intersection.
No. The 35 mph number is the maximum posted road speed limit for general LSV operation. An LSV’s defined top speed is greater than 20 mph and no more than 25 mph.
Yes. Florida requires an LSV operator to carry a valid driver license. Destin Golf Cart Rentals currently requires its drivers to be at least 25 as a rental condition.
Only if the complete road route is legal and you can park the LSV where allowed. Driving on the sand is prohibited in Destin.
Sources and publication notes
Checked September 23, 2026. Verify signs, route maps, local rules, and rental terms when publishing and before a specific trip. The article describes general rules; it does not certify a particular route.