2025 NYSGA GOLF CART POLICY
“ONE-SEAT” POLICY
The USGA’s “One-Seat” policy is adopted for all NYSGA/allied golf associations competitions, where carts are approved for use. It states that a player is entitled to use only one spot in a golf cart, which may be used by the player or the caddie – not both at the same time, regardless of available space.
- This “One-Seat” policy allows the player’s caddie the opportunity to assist the player during play. For example, the player’s caddie may drive the golf cart if the player chooses to walk, move the cart for the player from green to tee, etc., so long as the player and the player’s caddie are not riding in a golf cart at the same time.
- If the player’s caddie is driving a golf cart, the player is responsible for any breach of the Rules by the caddie (such as moving the player’s or an opponent’s ball at rest).
- Caddies who are driving a cart of their player are required to wear NYSGA caddie bibs during championship rounds.
- If two players in a group request a cart, one cart will be distributed to that group. If three players request a cart, two carts will be distributed.
- The player should not allow other individuals, such as spectators or volunteers, to drive, ride in or ride on the player’s golf cart during a stipulated round.
- No one should stand on the back or side of the golf cart while it is in motion.
If the player or the player’s caddie shows significant disregard for this policy,
the player may be disqualified from the competition under the NYSGA Code of Conduct
GOLF CART USE AT COMPETITIONS
Golf carts should only be driven in appropriate areas and away (10+ yards) from tees, bunkers, and putting greens. The driver of a golf cart must follow the instructions of any on-course signage and any official.
SUSPENSION OF GOLF CART USE
The NYSGA reserves the right to limit or suspend the use of golf carts due to inclement weather, unsafe use of the golf cart, disregard for NYSGA or host club policies, or other circumstances where use of a golf cart would present a hazard to others, the golf course or for other unforeseen circumstances. Refunds are not guaranteed when use of a golf cart has been suspended and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
HANDICAP CART REQUEST
If a caddie has a disability and would like to ride in a golf cart throughout the stipulated round in addition to the player, approval will be granted by the NYSGA consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To evaluate such requests, submission of the NYSGA Golf Cart Request Form (click here) for the caddie is required (as well as additional important information for the first time and subsequent requests for a golf cart).
SPECTATORS USE OF GOLF CARTS
The NYSGA generally does not permit spectators the use of golf carts during practice and competition rounds. Limited exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis for spectators with a disability who (1) complete and submit the NYSGA Golf Cart Request Form (click here) and (2) are approved by a member of the NYSGA staff.