Information

Parking & Directions

Vendor Information

Livestock Laws

Golf Carts

Tram

Parking & Directions

Parking

Parking is available in Downtown Benson, the Chamber Park and Arena, and outlying regions. Church Street (beside Main Street) will be closed to parking the day of the parade and open to traffic flow only. This is a safety issue and it is advised to visitors to arrive in Benson early to find a suitable parking space. On J. Lee Road, there is a park and ride lot available from 9:00AM – 5:00PM every day. All vehicles must be moved by 5:00PM for rodeo parking.

Handicap parking is available in Downtown Benson, and also at the Chamber Park.

*No overnight parking or camping in these areas!*

Heads up travelers! Expect delays on I-95 on Saturday, September 26. If you’re headed to Benson, take I-40, Exit 325 for a quicker trip. 

Vendor Information

Vendors can download an application that must be completed and submitted by the deadline designated. Due to limited space in the Chamber vendor area some vendors will be referred to local property owners who rent lots. The Chamber does not control the price of these private lots and is not responsible for any fees attached but it is the private lot vendors responsibility to see that all fees are paid to the town of Benson and Johnston County before setting up or risk being shut down. Food vendors will be inspected by the Johnston County Health Department and must comply to the regulations set forth by this department. The Town of Benson Fire Department will inspect all vendors to ensure the safety of all in attendance.

All vendors must be ten (10) feet from the curb (if the street on which you are set up is NOT closed to traffic) and if at a sidewalk must be behind the sidewalk as not to hamper foot traffic. Vendors must purchase a fire permit. Vendors MUST have a fireproof tent and a fire extinguisher.

It is advised that these vendors ask the landowners questions pertaining to fees or call the Town of Benson at 

919-894-3553.

Learn More & Apply

Livestock Laws

Coggins Test papers must be readily available and on the person of the rider and owner of equine animals during Benson Mule Days. North Carolina state law stipulates ALL equine are required to have a test for this deadly virus which is easily transmitted. State Inspectors will be checking equine owners during this event and if papers are not presented to the inspector, the owner and horse, mule or donkey will be asked to leave Benson.

To learn about laws and violations from the State Board of Agriculture-Veterinary Division. Click the button below.

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Golf Carts

https://bensonmuledays.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/golf-cart-flyer.pngAny questions regarding golf carts contact the Benson Police Department at 919-894-2091.

To rent a golf cart, you must contact a dealer on your own and must abide by the Town of Benson Ordinances. The Chamber DOES NOT RENT GOLF CARTS!

Golf Cart Ordinance – Quick Reference Guide:

  1. Electric and Gas Powered Golf Carts only.  Side by Side (UTV) vehicles that are licensed and plated by the DMV will be allowed. No Town of Benson inspections will be done on unplated Side by Sides. Golf Carts will be the only thing allowed to have an inspection. No Gators, ATV’s, or Mules (mechanical) allowed. 
  2. Golf Carts must have insurance; proof will be required. Golf Carts must have seatbelts for each occupant; use will be strictly enforced. Golf Carts must have a rear-view mirror. Golf Carts must have reflective “Slow Moving Sign” on rear of cart.
  3. Golf Carts must have current Town of Benson Golf Cart Permit; provided by Chief of Police. The cost is $60.00.
  4. Golf Carts are subject to all traffic laws. Alcohol laws will also apply, including DWI.
  5. Golf Carts must yield “Right of Way” to motor vehicles.
  6. Golf Carts may only operate between the hours of sunrise, to 30 minutes prior to sunset.
  7. Golf Carts may only be operated by a properly licensed driver. This list is designed for quick reference only, and the most frequently asked questions are addressed.

A copy of the complete Town of Benson Golf Cart Ordinance will be provided by the Police Department, during the inspection process. You can see the town’s golf cart permit checklist here.

*For everyone’s safety we ask that golf carts or any other vehicles please do not dart in and out between the equine or wagons.*

Tram Schedule