Start a miniature golf course by following these 10 steps: Plan your Miniature Golf Course Form your Miniature Golf Course into a Legal Entity Register your Miniature Golf Course for Taxes
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How do I start a miniature golf business?
Once you're ready to start your miniature golf course, follow these steps to ensure that your business is legally compliant and avoid wasting time and money as your business grows: Plan your business. Form a legal entity. Register for taxes. Open a business bank account. Set up business accounting. Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
How much land is needed to build a miniature golf course?
In general, an 18-hole outdoor miniature golf course commonly uses about one-half acre or 20,000 to 22,000 s.f. Your costs are effected because of the need to fill the vacant area with “something”, be it landscape, ground cover, concrete or water. In other words, use no more land surface than is required to accomplish your objective.
Where can you find mini golf courses?
Most mini golf courses are no longer stand-alone as they have been incorporated into the entertainment industry and can therefore be found in places such as shopping malls, bowling centers, skating rinks, amusement parks and tourists’ attractions.
How to get your investment back in a mini golf course?
How to get your investment back is in building a very fine course and then keeping it well maintained. This means if there are lots of clowns and castles on your mini golf course, they will need to be scrubbed and painted a lot of times.
Can you make money playing mini golf?
Mini golf courses tend to be profitable businesses—and sometimes very lucrative—because of their business model. But you can't rely on a business model to ensure that your mini golf course will also be a success.
What materials do you need to build a mini golf course?
Build your course with any available combination of bricks, wood, aluminum siding, whatever works. The game is best played with a croquet set, because the balls are larger and easier to control, but golf equipment is fine, too, especially for advanced players.
How many hits are allowed per course with miniature golf?
Every stroke taken counts as a point, although many courses limit players to a maximum of seven strokes per hole. The player with the fewest strokes at the end of the round wins.
What is the area of a mini golf course?
between 15,000 and 22,000 square feetThe recommendation for an 18-hole miniature golf course is between 15,000 and 22,000 square feet for the playing surface. However, a site as small as 9,000 square feet can be accommodated. The clubhouse and parking areas are additional to the playing surface.
How do I set up a putt putt course?
Miniature Golf (Putt Putt) CourseStep 1: Materials. Purchase or scrounge the material. ... Step 2: Build the Bases. Build 4 by 8 rectangles with pressure treated 2x4s. ... Step 3: Create Bases for the Courses. ... Step 4: Mount Rectangular Bases Onto the 4x4 Foundation. ... Step 5: Put on the Carpet. ... Step 6: Finishing Touches. ... 4 Comments.
What goes into building a golf course?
The Cost of Building a Golf CourseConstruction ItemsMinimalist CourseUp-Scale CourseTopsoil Replacement40,000240,000Storm Drainage10,000500,000Golf Drainage20,000150,000Irrigation + Pumpstation130,000910,00017 more rows
What are the rules to mini golf?
Simply start by placing your ball on the green at the start of the hole. Take turns by putting the ball (using the golf club) towards the hole, count how many shots it takes you until you sink the ball in the hole. Record how many shots it takes to sink the ball in the hole on the scorecard.
How do you keep track of mini golf?
0:142:19How To Golf with Kathryn Newton: How To Keep Score - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo the simplest way to explain scoring is that you have to count up how many times tried to hit theMoreSo the simplest way to explain scoring is that you have to count up how many times tried to hit the ball in order to get it in the cup on each hole.
Who shoots first in mini golf?
If no one scored lower on the previous hole, use the same order you used last. WHO HITS FIRST AFTER TEEING OFF? After all have teed off, whoever is FARTHEST from the hole is the first to hit. This continues until the hole is completed.
What is the difference between crazy golf and mini golf?
In crazy golf, these are found on the playing surface, and players have to putt their ball through or over them. In adventure golf, the features are often next to the holes, with players instead having to negotiate humps, bumps and big slopes. Minigolf is the umbrella term for the sport as a whole.
What is the average size of a mini golf hole?
30-45 feetTransition spaces are lawns and a wooden bridge at one place. The average length of each hole is 30-45 feet and average width is 2.5-3 feet.
What do you call a small golf course?
Approach course: An approach course is one that is even shorter than a par-3 course, one designed primarily to allow experienced golfers to practice pitching and chipping, or intended for use by beginners.
What are the costs involved in opening a miniature golf course?
The costs of opening a mini-golf business vary, but typically run up $500,000. One professional group estimates that it will cost between $15,000 t...
What are the ongoing expenses for a miniature golf course?
The good news is that after the initial expenses to open a course, the ongoing expenses are relatively minor. Some of the costs will vary by busine...
Who is the target market?
In general, your best clients will be families. This is because the parents will help to control the behavior of children (which will not be true o...
How much can you charge customers?
The exact cost may vary by region, but it is typical to charge customers about $5 to $7 to play 18 holes. This pricing makes your business a very c...
How much profit can a miniature golf course make?
The exact amount of profit your business makes greatly depends on the region as well as what the local entertainment competition is. However, the r...
How can you make your business more profitable?
In order to maximize profitability, be sure to have an advertising presence in logical areas for potential customers, including schools, churches,...
Is this Business Right For You?
This job is definitely for someone who is enthusiastic about mini-golf. This helps you to not only enjoy your job but to facilitate minor repairs a...
What happens during a typical day at a miniature golf course?
The daily activities for a mini-golf business are pretty simple. You will be talking to customers, taking their payment, providing them with equipm...
What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful miniature golf course?
Prior experience working at a mini-golf business or other type of recreational center can be helpful to in starting this business. Similarly, being...
What is the growth potential for a miniature golf course?
The exact growth potential of a mini-golf business varies by area. Nationally, businesses that focus purely on mini-golf have experienced a decline...
How many mini golf courses have been built?
The professionals at Harris Miniature Golf, Inc. know exactly what burgeoning business owners need to build successful mini golf courses. Our team has built over 800 mini golf courses worldwide over the past 60 years. We have the confidence, experience, and talent you have been looking for.
How many golf courses are there in Florida?
Florida has earned its name as the Golf Capital of the World. There are approximately 1,400 golf courses within the state, many of which are in Palm Beach County. As a destination vacation spot for many domestic and international tourists, Florida offers plenty of entertainment options both indoors and outside.
Why is mini golf considered a good investment?
Below are some reasons that mini golf courses make excellent investment opportunities: Mini golf is great for all ages. Miniature golf is a low-risk sport. The startup costs are low. Staffing and equipment needs are minimal. As a low-risk sport, the cost of liability insurance can be kept low.
What is Harris mini golf?
Unlike other construction companies in which mini golf is just a side component, Harris Miniature Golf is centered around the design, development, and construction of mini golf. We have been building mini golf courses throughout the US for over 60 years.
How to Start Your Own Miniature Golf Course Business
There are several steps every business owner should take when thinking of starting their own miniature golf business:
Where to Find the Best Miniature Golf in the Country
Known for their numerous miniature golf courses, the following cities and resort towns are hugely popular amongst miniature golf fans:
Choose Your Location and Miniature Golf Construction Company!
Now that you have expressed an interest in starting a mini golf business, why wait any longer? Begin your new business venture today in mini golf! Reach out to Harris Miniature Golf for the easiest design, development, and mini golf course construction experience. Enjoy the process and have fun every step of the way.
What is the best way to market a mini golf course?
Common marketing techniques for a mini golf course include social media marketing and online advertising. Developing a website can be a significant expense, but it can also give your mini golf course greater visibility online.
What do you need to make money on a golf course?
You need a location that is convenient and has high traffic for visibility . Additionally, locating a course close to other family attractions or fun centers such as batting cage, go kart track, video arcade, etc., can help generate more income.
What is a mini golf course?
A mini golf course (also called putt-putt) provides the course and equipment for customers to play rounds of mini golf. Some also offer other activities, such as arcade games or batting cages, as well as a snack bar.
What is the target market for mini golf?
The target market demographics include mini golf lovers, particularly families with children and tourists.
Is mini golf a recreational activity?
Mini golf has been a popular recreational activity for people of all ages for a long time. Almost all of us have played at some point in our lives. If you are a mini golf lover, you could have fun and make money by opening your own mini golf course.
Is it risky to start a mini golf course?
It takes a significant amount of capital to start a mini golf course, so there will be a high level of risk and no guarantee of success.
Do mini golf courses need licenses?
Some cities require the licensing of places of amusement, which a mini golf course falls under.
Is a Miniature Golf Course A Profitable Business?
For the last few years, mini-golf ventures are observing financial setbacks mainly because of the economic downturn and also for the growth of alternate entertainment businesses.
1. Understand the Local Market
The first step before jumping into the miniature golf business is to collect detailed information regarding the local demography and demand for such entertainment activity.
2. Create a Business Plan
Creating an in-depth and detailed business plan is an essential part of building a successful miniature business. Some of the key areas your mini-golf course business plan must include are the following:
3. Name Your Business
Selecting a catchy business name for your mini golf business is extremely important for long-term success. There are various aspects you need to consider before finalizing your business name.
4. Register Your Mini Golf Business
If you want to start and run a hassle-free legally compliant miniature golf course business, it is most essential to register your company. Every state and country offers a different type of legal company formation structure.
5. Licenses & Permits for Miniature Golf Course Business
There are certain licenses and permits you need to obtain to run a mini-golf course business. The legal requirements depend from state to state and country to country.
6. Select a Proper Location
The key to success for a mini-golf course business is finding a good location. The place must be easily accessible and people can reach it easily.
How much land do you need to build a mini golf course?
The good news is that you can build your mini golf on something as little as three-quarters of an acre. However, you can easily turn a profit if you know what you are doing and if you add other features intended to attract your customers.
What are the challenges of starting a mini golf business?
Therefore some of the challenges and threats that you are likely to face when starting your mini golf business include; having to deal with competition from other existing mini golf businesses, having to deal with alternative entertainment options, economic downturn and having to deal with regulations from the industry.
Why are mini golf courses struggling?
The paintball and roller skating games have experienced a downturn especially between the periods of 2008 and 2013, which is why new mini golf courses are struggling to stay alive by designing a course that is technologically inclined in order to still be able to attract and retain their customers.
How long have mini golf courses been around?
Mini golf courses have been in existence for about a hundred years and it is an American form of entertainment that has remained viable ever since. Mini golf courses are regarded as one of the few American cultural icons left and can be found in cities, suburbs, and even rural towns across the country.
Why is location important in mini golf?
In running a mini golf business, location is very important as it can help keep you in competition. This means that customers do not want to drive or travel too far before they are able to enjoy the social activity that a mini golf provides especially with the many alternative entertainment options available.
When did mini golf start?
The mini golf course business began to take shape in the 1950s and boomed until the 90s when its popularity began to slow down due to technology being built for home use as most customers especially kids now prefer to engage in interactive pastimes.
Who are the demographics of mini golf courses?
Others include small groups, individuals, business executives, wealthy personalities and celebrities. Therefore, if you are looking to define the demographics of your mini golf course business, you might need to make it all encompassing as there are different groups of people that can visit a mini golf course at any time.
Who makes miniature golf courses?
The golf course is being designed and built by the most respected miniature golf course company in the United States, Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders, Inc. Four other builders were considered, but did not meet the professional standards of Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders . Mulligan-Bogey has built more than 400 profitable courses during their 40 ...
How many courses has Mulligan-Bogey built?
Mulligan-Bogey has built more than 400 profitable courses during their 40 years in business. They have demonstrated knowledge of what is required to make a successful facility. The course will be challenging, but not overly so. This will bring customers back to attempt to better their previous score.
What assets are needed for a start up?
Start-up assets required include short-term assets (office furniture and kitchen equipment), and we need initial cash to handle the first month of operations. The details are included in the start-up table. Owners are making a cash investment.
Is miniature golf a regulation golf course?
video arcade. climbing wall. food service. Miniature golf is NOT golf in miniature. However, miniature golf does have a lot in common with regulation golf. To be interesting, miniature golf holes must have the contour changes found on a regulation green, which cause the ball to break and turn as it rolls toward the cup.
What Is an LLC?
An LLC is a US business structure that combines the limited liability protection of a corporation with the simplicity and pass-through taxation of a sole proprietorship.
Do I Need an LLC for a Miniature Golf Course?
LLCs are a simple and inexpensive way to protect your personal assets and save money on taxes.
Should I Start an LLC FAQ
Choosing the right business structure depends on your business’s unique circumstances and needs. However, unless your business is very low risk (like a hobby), an LLC is likely the better option.
How much land is needed for an 18 hole golf course?
There are no absolute minimums and maximums for the area required. In general, an 18-hole outdoor miniature golf course commonly uses about one-half acre or 20,000 to 22,000 s.f. Your costs are effected because of the need to fill the vacant area with “something”, be it landscape, ground cover, concrete or water. In other words, use no more land surface than is required to accomplish your objective. Extra space may provide an opportunity for another revenue center….almost always a good thing.
Why should a golf course be themed?
You should match the course to the market. In an area with high-volume potential, your course should be heavily themed to provide strong visual and emotional appeal. This inspires repeat play and high traffic that keeps you competitive with other nearby courses.
What is Castle Golf?
Castle Golf knows and understands design and many more important but all too often overlooked details that dramatically impact your revenue. A fun and memorable experience is only delivered through a careful and experience driven miniature golf course design.
How to increase repeat visits to golf course?
Increase repeat visits by providing an attractive, challenging (but playable!) and entertaining environment and an eventful final hole contribute to a happy memory of your course. Other details such as signage, landscaping and complementary facilities such as food service, plazas and party areas all figure in to what sort of experience your visitors will have. Increase repeat visits by providing an attractive, challenging (but playable!) and entertaining environment and an eventful final hole contribute to a happy memory of your course.
How big is a castle golf course?
The size of these indoor courses typically ranges from 6,000 square feet to 12,000 square feet. Castle Golf encourages course sizes to be closer to 9,000 s.f. than 6,000 s.f. whenever possible. Castle Golf also believes that an indoor miniature golf should be viewed in a different light than its outdoor counterpart.
What is the playability factor in golf?
The PLAYABILITY factor requires that the ball roll true, that it goes where you putt it. It also means that the holes are designed to match the customers in your market. For some, this may mean a course that places a premium on skill and challenge. For most, this will be a family friendly course that balances skill and novelty, a course that results in players of all ages having a fun experience. These decisions should be addressed during the design phase of your course development.
How many holes are there in a golf course?
The emerging standard (not official) appears to be that 50% of the course should be wheelchair accessible. The design for an 18-hole course could create a loop of 9 holes that are connected in such a way that they can be played twice.