Golf Cart Signage at Bass Lake Causes Confusion

The Starke County Commissioners discussed signs posted by INDOT concerning the operation of golf carts on State Road 10 at Bass Lake.

Commissioner Kathy Norem said she received several comments from members of the Bass Lake Property Owners Association about the signs. Norem said there are conflicting interpretations of the signs that urge motorists to watch for crossing golf carts.

According to INDOT officials, state law prohibits the operation of golf carts on state highways. This includes State Road 10 that winds around the south side of Bass Lake. While the county allows golf carts on designated county roads, the county’s governance has no jurisdiction on state highways. Golf carts may cross the state highway, but a golf cart cannot continuously travel on the state highway. Violators will be ticketed.

INDOT officials say the signs posted at Bass Lake are intended to alert motorists that golf carts may cross a state highway.

County Attorney Marty Lucas will officially submit a letter to INDOT asking for clarification to distribute to the Bass Lake Property Owners Association board members.