Across Inwood Park, summer often brings sun-soaked days and kids eager to explore the neighborhood. But for many residents, the seasonal uptick in golf carts, ATVs, and underage drivers throughout Fairfield has become a recurring safety concern—especially as carts buzz across sidewalks, spill into the streets, and park in driveways instead of garages.

While some families view neighborhood cruising as harmless summer fun, the reality is more complex—and potentially dangerous. According to the Texas Transportation Code, these types of low-speed vehicles fall under strict state and municipal regulations, especially when it comes to who can drive them, where they can go, and how they’re equipped.

What's Going Wrong in Inwood Park?

Inwood Park’s HOA and Fairfield law enforcement have noted a rise in several recurring issues:

• Underage or unlicensed drivers operating golf carts and ATVs;

• Vehicles driven on sidewalks, where pedestrians—especially children and the elderly—are at risk;

• Golf carts left parked in driveways, visible and accessible, rather than stored in enclosed garages as required by many HOA policies;

• Excessive speeds and unsafe operation, particularly near playgrounds and community amenities.

For parents, the temptation to hand over the keys to their teen—or even younger child—for a quick joyride around the block might seem like a rite of passage. But doing so without fully understanding the laws could place not just their child, but the entire community, in harm’s way.

Mobile Sidebar Ad

What Texas Law Says

The Texas Transportation Code Chapter 551 outlines clear limitations and responsibilities regarding golf carts, neighborhood electric vehicles, and other low-powered transport options. Here's what residents of Inwood Park need to know:

• Definition and Limitations: Golf carts are defined as motor vehicles designed for use primarily on golf courses, capable of speeds up to 25 mph

• Where They Can Be Driven: They may only be driven on roads with speed limits under 35 mph and must stick to daylight hours within planned communities like Fairfield

• Sidewalk Use Is Prohibited: Carts and ATVs cannot legally operate on sidewalks or bike paths unless designated

• Driver Age and Licensing: Drivers must be licensed. Underage or unlicensed operation is unlawful and unsafe

• Required Equipment: Street-legal golf carts must have headlamps, tail lamps, reflectors, a parking brake, and mirrors

Failure to follow these rules not only risks tickets and fines but could result in severe injuries or fatalities, particularly in a neighborhood with children frequently playing outdoors.

Why It Matters: Safety Over Summer Fun

The National Safety Council reports that injuries related to off-road vehicles, including ATVs and golf carts, rise sharply during the summer months. In 2023 alone, over 6,500 emergency room visits nationwide involved children under 15 injured by golf carts—many in residential settings.

A study published by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine also found that 70% of golf cart injuries occurred on streets, sidewalks, or driveways—not golf courses. Most injuries involved children as passengers or drivers, and over 30% of those cases resulted in head trauma.

These facts highlight a crucial takeaway: golf carts and ATVs may seem like harmless summer fun, but they come with very real responsibilities and risks. Understanding the laws and recognizing the potential for injury—especially to children—should shift the mindset from casual use to cautious oversight. Safety starts with awareness, and when families take the time to operate these vehicles lawfully and thoughtfully, it protects not only their loved ones but the entire neighborhood.

Mobile Sidebar Ad

A Call for Community-Wide Vigilance

Rather than casting blame or playing the “neighborhood police,” Inwood Park residents and HOA leaders are aiming to educate and empower families to make informed choices. The goal is to preserve the fun of summer while preventing accidents before they happen.

Local law enforcement encourages parents to have open conversations with their kids about the responsibilities and risks of operating these vehicles. Keeping carts stored safely in garages, monitoring usage, and reinforcing the laws can go a long way in keeping everyone safe.

“This is about protecting our kids and our neighbors,” said an Inwood Park HOA Board member. “When we all follow the rules, we’re helping each other enjoy the community we love.”

Stay Informed

For updates on neighborhood policies and safety tips specific to Inwood Park and Fairfield, stay connected with My Neighborhood News. Residents are also encouraged to reference the full Texas Transportation Code Chapter 551 for further reading or reach out to local HOA board members for clarification on local guidelines.

Let’s make this summer safe, memorable, and mishap-free—for everyone.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.