Code Two : Text

Simple Golf Rules

Code Two

December 17, 2012
Revised: August 04, 2013

David Hayes - John Morrissett

Excerpts from The Rules of Golf are reprinted from The Rules of Golf 2012-2015 (c) 2011 United States Golf Association, with permission. All rights in The Rules of Golf are reserved by the USGA.
This publication summarizes some of The Rules of Golf as interpreted by the authors. The United States Golf Association does not warrant the accuracy or endorse the authors' interpretations.

Section

I Etiquette
II Definitions
III The Rules of Play

Rule 1 The Game
    1-1 General
    1-2 Forms of Play
    1-3 Failure to Hole Out
    1-4 Agreement to Waive Rules
    1-5 General Penalty
Rule 2 Clubs
    2-1 Form and Make of Clubs
    2-2 Playing Characteristics Changed and Foreign Material
        a. Playing Characteristics Changed
        b. Foreign Material
    2-3 Damaged Clubs
        a. Damage in Normal Course of Play
        b. Damage Other Than in Normal Course of Play
    2-4 Maximum of Fourteen Clubs
Rule 3 Balls
    3-1 General
    3-2 Foreign Material
Rule 4 The Player
    4-1 Rules
    4-2 Handicap
        a. Match Play
        b. Stroke Play
    4-3 Time of Starting and Groups
        a. Time of Starting
        b. Groups
    4-4 Caddie
    4-5 Scoring in Stroke Play
        a. Indication of Penalties
        b. Signing and Returning Score Card
        c. Alteration of Score Card
        d. Wrong Score for Hole
    4-6 Undue Delay
    4-7 Discontinuance of Play; Resumption of Play
        a. When Permitted
        b. Procedure When Play Suspended by Committee
        c. Lifting Ball When Play Discontinued
        d. Procedure When Play Resumed Following Suspension by the Committee
Rule 5 Practice
    5-1 Before or Between Rounds
    5-2 During Round
Rule 6 Advice
Rule 7 Order of Play
    7-1 When Starting Play of Hole
    7-2 During Play of Hole
    7-3 Playing Out of Turn
Rule 8 Teeing Ground
    8-1 Teeing
    8-2 Tee-Markers
    8-3 Playing from Outside Teeing Ground (Including a Wrong Teeing Ground)
Rule 9 Striking the Ball
    9-1 Ball to be Fairly Struck
    9-2 Physical Assistance
    9-3 Aids and Unusual Use of Equipment
    9-4 Striking the Ball More Than Once
Rule 10 Seeing Ball; Searching for Ball
Rule 11 Ball Played as It Lies
    11-1 General
    11-2 Removal of Loose Impediments
    11-3 Improving Environment of the Ball
    11-4 Exerting Influence on Movement of Ball
    11-5 Building Stance
    11-6 Testing Condition of Hazard
Rule 12 Substituted Ball; Wrong Ball
    12-1 General
    12-2 Substituted Ball
    12-3 Wrong Ball
Rule 13 The Putting Green
    13-1 General
        a. Lifting and Cleaning Ball
        b. Repair of Hole Plugs, Ball Marks and Other Damage
        c. Testing Surface
        d. Making Stroke While Another Ball in Motion
    13-2 Ball Overhanging Hole
Rule 14 The Flagstick
    14-1 Flagstick Attended, Removed or Held Up
    14-2 Ball Resting Against Flagstick
Rule 15 Ball at Rest Moved
Rule 16 Ball in Motion Deflected or Stopped
Rule 17 Lifting and Placing; Playing from Wrong Place
    17-1 Marking and Lifting
    17-2 Placing and Replacing
        a. By Whom and Where
        b. Ball Fails to Come to Rest on Spot
    17-3 Making Next Stroke from Where Previous Stroke Made
    17-4 Lifting Ball Incorrectly Substituted or Placed
    17-5 Playing from Wrong Place
Rule 18 Ball Interfering with Play
Rule 19 Obstructions and Abnormal Ground Conditions
    19-1 Movable Obstructions
    19-2 Immovable Obstructions and Abnormal Ground Conditions
        a. Interference
        b. Relief
    19-3 Ball in Obstruction or Abnormal Ground Condition Not Found
        a. Ball in Movable Obstruction Not Found
        b. Ball in Immovable Obstruction or Abnormal Ground Condition Not Found
Rule 20 Embedded Ball; Aeration Holes; Seams of Cut Turf; Wrong Putting Green
    20-1 Embedded Ball
    20-2 Aeration Holes
    20-3 Seams of Cut Turf
    20-4 Wrong Putting Green
Rule 21 Stroke and Distance; Ball Lost or Out of Bounds
    21-1 Proceeding Under Stroke and Distance
    21-2 Ball Out of Bounds or Lost Because Not Found Within Three Minutes
Rule 22 Relief for Ball in a Water Hazard
Rule 23 Ball Unplayable
Rule 24 Alternate Shot
    24-1 General
    24-2 Playing Out of Sequence
Rule 25 Best-Ball Play
    25-1 Representation of Side
    25-2 Order of Play
    25-3 Disqualification of Side
    25-4 Effect of Other Penalties
Rule 26 The Committee
    26-1 Conditions; Waiving Rule
    26-2 The Course
        a. Defining Bounds and Margins
        b. New Holes
        c. Course Unplayable
    26-3 Times of Starting and Groups
    26-4 Handicap Stroke Table
    26-5 Score Card in Stroke Play
    26-6 Decision of Ties
    26-7 Local Rules
        a. Policy
        b. Waiving or Modifying a Rule
Rule 27 Disputes and Decisions
    27-1 Penalties
    27-2 Committee's Decision
    27-3 Equity
    27-4 Disqualification Penalty; Committee Discretion
Appendix I Local Rules; Conditions of the Competition
    Part A - Local Rules
        1. Defining Bounds and Margins
        2. Areas of the Course Requiring Preservation; Environmentally-Sensitive Areas
        3. Course Conditions — Mud, Extreme Wetness, Poor Conditions and Protection of Course
        4. Obstructions
    Part B - Conditions of the Competition
        1. One Ball Condition
        2. Caddie (Note to Rule 4-4)
        3. Pace of Play
        4. Advice in Team Competitions (Note to Rule 6)
        5. Transportation
        6. Anti-Doping
        7. How to Decide Ties
        8. Draw for Match Play
Appendix II Design of Clubs (minor addendum)
Appendix IV Devices and Other Equipment
    1 Tees (Rule 8)
    2 Gloves (Rule 9-3)
    3 Shoes (Rule 9-3)
    4 Clothing (Rule 9-3)

Section I - Etiquette; Behavior on the Course

Introduction

This section provides guidelines on the manner in which the game of golf should be played. If they are followed, all players will gain maximum enjoyment from the game. The overriding principle is that consideration should be shown to others on the course at all times.

The Spirit of the Game

Golf is played, for the most part, without the supervision of a referee or umpire. The game relies on the integrity of the individual to show consideration for other players and to abide by the Rules. All players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner, demonstrating courtesy and sportsmanship at all times, irrespective of how competitive they maybe. This is the spirit of the game of golf.

Safety

Players should ensure that no one is standing close by or in a position to be hit by the club, the ball or any stones, pebbles, twigs or the like when they make a stroke or practice swing.

Players should not play until the players in front are out of range.

Players should always alert the maintenance staff if a stroke they are about to make might endanger them.

If a player plays a ball in a direction where there is a danger of hitting someone, he should immediately shout a warning. The traditional word of warning in such situations is "fore."

Consideration For Other Players

No Disturbance Or Distraction

Players should always show consideration for other players on the course and should not disturb their play by moving, talking or making unnecessary noise.

Players should ensure that any electronic device taken onto the course does not distract other players.

On the teeing ground, a player should not tee his ball until it is his turn to play.

Players should not stand close to or directly behind the ball, or directly behind the hole, when a player is about to play.

On The Putting Green

On the putting green, players should not stand on another player's line of putt or, when he is making a stroke, cast a shadow over his line of putt.

Players should remain on or close to the putting green until all other players in the group have holed out.

Scoring

In stroke play, a player who is acting as a marker should, if necessary, on the way to the next tee, check the score with the player concerned and record it.

Pace Of Play

Play At Good Pace And Keep Up

Players should play at a good pace. The Committee may establish pace of play guidelines that all players should follow.

It is a group's responsibility to keep up with the group in front. If it loses a clear hole and it is delaying the group behind, it should invite the group behind to play through, irrespective of the number of players in that group. Where a group has not lost a clear hole, but it is apparent that the group behind can play faster, it should invite the faster moving group to play through.

Be Ready To Play

Players should be ready to play as soon as it is their turn to play. When playing on or near the putting green, they should leave their bags or carts in such a position as will enable quick movement off the green and towards the next tee. When the play of a hole has been completed, players should immediately leave the putting green.

Lost Ball

Players searching for a ball should signal the players in the group behind them to play through as soon as it becomes apparent that the ball will not easily be found. They should not search for three minutes before doing so. Having allowed the group behind to play through, they should not continue play until that group has passed and is out of range.

Priority On The Course

Unless otherwise determined by the Committee, priority on the course is determined by a group's pace of play. Any group playing a whole round is entitled to pass a group playing a shorter round. The term "group" includes a single player.

Care Of The Course

Bunkers

Before leaving a bunker, players should carefully fill up and smooth over all holes and footprints made by them and any nearby made by others. If a rake is within reasonable proximity of the bunker, the rake should be used for this purpose.

Repair Of Divots, Ball Marks And Damage By Shoes

Players should carefully repair any divot holes made by them and any damage to the putting green made by the impact of a ball (whether or not made by the player himself). On completion of the hole by all players in the group, damage to the putting green caused by golf shoes should be repaired.

Preventing Unnecessary Damage

Players should not damage the course by removing divots when taking practice swings or by hitting the head of a club into the ground, whether in anger or for any other reason.

Players should not damage the putting green when putting down bags or the flagstick.

In order to avoid damaging the hole, players and caddies should not stand too close to the hole and should take care during the handling of the flagstick and the removal of a ball from the hole. The head of a club should not be used to remove a ball from the hole.

Players should not lean on their clubs when on the putting green, particularly when removing the ball from the hole.

The flagstick should be properly replaced in the hole before the players leave the putting green.

Local notices regulating the movement of golf carts should be strictly observed.

Conclusion; Penalties For Breach

If players follow the guidelines in this section, it will make the game more enjoyable for everyone.

If a player consistently disregards these guidelines during a round or over a period of time to the detriment of others, it is recommended that the Committee consider taking appropriate disciplinary action against the offending player. Such action may, for example, include prohibiting play for a limited time on the course or in a certain number of competitions. This is considered to be justifiable in terms of protecting the interests of the majority of golfers who wish to play in accordance with these guidelines.

In the case of a serious breach of etiquette, the Committee may disqualify a player under Rule 27-4.

Section II - Definitions

Abnormal Ground Conditions

An "abnormal ground condition" is any ground under repair, temporary water or rut or hole (including any removed material piled in the creation of that hole) on the course made by an animal.

Advice

"Advice" is any counsel or suggestion that could influence a player in his method of making a stroke or in his club selection.

Information on the line of play, line of putt, Rules, distance or matters of public information, such as the position of hazards, the putting green, or the hole, is not advice.

Ball Holed

See "Holed."

Ball in Play

A ball is "in play" as soon as the player has made a stroke on the teeing ground. It remains in play until it is holed, except when it is lost, out of bounds or lifted, or another ball has been substituted, whether or not the substitution is permitted; a ball so substituted becomes the ball in play.

Ball Lost

See "Lost Ball."

Bunker

A "bunker" is a hazard consisting of a prepared area of ground, often a hollow, from which turf or soil has been removed and replaced with sand or the like.

Grass-covered ground bordering or within a bunker, including a stacked turf face (whether grass-covered or earthen), is not part of the bunker. A wall or lip of the bunker not covered with grass is part of the bunker. The margin of a bunker extends vertically downwards, but not upwards.

A ball is in a bunker when it lies in or any part of it touches the bunker.

Note 1: The Committee may clarify the status of areas on the course that meet or are similar to this Definition i.e., by deeming (and/or marking) them as bunkers or as areas through the green.

Note 2: If it is necessary to define an entire bunker to be ground under repair, the area so defined loses its status as a hazard i.e., it becomes an area through the green.

Caddie

A "caddie" is one who assists the player in accordance with the Rules, which may include carrying or handling the player's clubs during play.

When one caddie is employed by more than one player, he is always deemed to be the caddie of the player sharing the caddie whose ball (or whose partner's ball) is involved, and equipment carried and clothing worn by him is deemed to be that player's equipment, except when the caddie acts upon specific directions of another player (or the partner of another player) sharing the caddie, in which case he is considered to be that other player's caddie.

Committee

The "Committee" is the committee in charge of the competition or, if the matter does not arise in a competition, the committee in charge of the course.

Course

The "course" is the whole area within any boundaries established by the Committee (see Rule 26-2).

Environment of the Ball

The "environment of the ball" is the lie of the ball, area of intended stance and swing, line of play and a reasonable extension of that line beyond the hole, and the spot on which a ball is to be placed.

Equipment

"Equipment" is anything used, worn or carried by the player or his caddie or anything carried for the player by his partner or either of their caddies, except any ball he has played at the hole being played and any small object, such as a coin or a tee, when used to mark a location. A ball played at the hole being played is equipment when it has been lifted and not put back into play.

Equipment includes a golf cart, whether or not motorized. When a golf cart is shared by two or more players, the cart and everything in it are deemed to be the equipment of one of the players sharing the cart. If the cart is being moved by one of the players (or the partner of one of the players) sharing it, the cart and everything in it are deemed to be that player's equipment. Otherwise, the cart and everything in it are deemed to be the equipment of the player sharing the cart whose ball (or whose partner's ball) is involved.

Fellow-Player

A "fellow-player" is a member of another side (i.e., he is not the player's partner).

Flagstick

The "flagstick" is a movable straight indicator, with or without a flag or other material attached, centered in the hole to show its position. The flagstick and any rigid attachment to it must be circular in cross-section. Padding or shock absorbent material that might unduly influence the movement of the ball is prohibited.

Forms of Play

Individual: A competition in which each player plays as an individual.

Alternate Shot: A competition in which a side comprised of two partners plays one ball alternating strokes.

Best-Ball: A competition in which a side of two or more players play as partners, each playing his own ball. The method by which a side's score for a hole is determined (e.g., whether that score is the best score of the partners or the sum of the best two scores etc.) is specified by the Committee as a condition of competition. If one partner fails to complete the play of a hole, there is no penalty (provided the side is able to meet the scoring requirements for that hole).

Ground Under Repair

"Ground under repair" is any part of the course so marked by order of the Committee or so declared by its authorized representative. All ground and any grass, bush, tree or other growing thing within the ground under repair are part of the ground under repair. Ground under repair includes material piled for removal and a hole made by a greenkeeper, even if not so marked. Grass cuttings and other material left on the course that have been abandoned and are not intended to be removed are not ground under repair unless so marked.

When the margin of ground under repair is defined by stakes, the stakes are inside the ground under repair, and the margin of the ground under repair is defined by the nearest outside points of the stakes at ground level. When both stakes and lines are used to indicate ground under repair, the stakes identify the ground under repair and the lines define the margin of the ground under repair. When the margin of ground under repair is defined by a line on the ground, the line itself is in the ground under repair. The margin of ground under repair extends vertically downwards but not upwards.

A ball is in ground under repair when it lies in or any part of it touches the ground under repair.

Stakes used to define the margin of or identify ground under repair are obstructions.

Note: The Committee may make a Local Rule prohibiting play from ground under repair or an environmentally-sensitive area defined as ground under repair.

Hazards

A "hazard" is any bunker or water hazard.

Hole

The "hole" must be 4 1/4 inches (108 mm) in diameter and at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) deep. If a lining is used, it must be sunk at least 1 inch (25.4 mm) below the putting green surface, unless the nature of the soil makes it impracticable to do so; its outer diameter must not exceed 4 1/4 inches (108 mm).

Holed

A ball is "holed" when it is at rest within the circumference of the hole and all of it is below the level of the lip of the hole.

Line of Play

The "line of play" is the direction that the player wishes his ball to take after a stroke, plus a reasonable distance on either side of the intended direction. The line of play extends vertically upwards from the ground, but does not extend beyond the hole.

Line of Putt

The "line of putt" is the line that the player wishes his ball to take after a stroke on the putting green. The line of putt does not extend beyond the hole.

Loose Impediments

Inanimate natural objects and worms, insects and the like are 'loose impediments" provided they are not (i) fixed, (ii) solidly embedded, or (iii) adhering to the ball.

Sand and loose soil are loose impediments on the putting green, but not elsewhere.

Snow and natural ice, other than frost, are either temporary water or loose impediments, at the option of the player.

Dew and frost are not loose impediments.

Lost Ball

A ball is deemed "lost" if:

It is not found or identified as his by the player within three minutes after the player's side or his or their caddies have begun to search for it; or
The player has put another ball into play under penalty of stroke and distance under Rule 21-1; or
The player has put another ball into play when permitted or required to do so by Rule 15 (ball not found due to having been moved), Rule 19 (ball not found in obstruction or abnormal ground condition), or Rule 22 (ball not found in water hazard); or
The player has made a stroke at a substituted ball.

Marker

A "marker" is one who is appointed by the Committee to record a player's score in stroke play. He may be a fellow-player. He is not a referee.

Move or Moved

A ball has "moved" if it leaves its original location and comes to rest in any other location. A ball that oscillates without coming to rest in another location, is not considered to have moved.

Obstructions

An "obstruction" is anything artificial except any construction declared by the Committee to be an integral part of the course.

An obstruction is a movable obstruction if it may be moved without unreasonable effort, without unduly delaying play and without causing damage. Otherwise, it is an immovable obstruction.

The tee-markers of the player's teeing ground are deemed to be immovable obstructions during play of that hole. The tee-markers for another teeing ground are movable obstructions for the player.

Opponent

An "opponent" is a member of a side against whom the player's side is competing in match play.

Out of Bounds

"Out of bounds" is beyond any boundaries of the course or any part of the course so marked by the Committee.

When out of bounds is defined by reference to stakes or a fence or as being beyond stakes or a fence, the out of bounds line is determined by the nearest inside points at ground level of the stakes or fence posts (excluding angled supports). When both stakes and lines are used to indicate out of bounds, the stakes identify out of bounds and the lines define out of bounds. When out of bounds is defined by a line on the ground, the line itself is out of bounds. The out of bounds line extends vertically upwards and downwards.

A ball is out of bounds when all of it lies out of bounds. A player may stand out of bounds to play a ball lying within bounds.

Artificial objects defining or identifying out of bounds such as walls, fences, stakes and railings are immovable obstructions. Stakes or lines used to define or identify out of bounds should be white.

Outside Agency

An "outside agency" is any agency other than the player, his partner, either of their caddies, and any equipment of either side. Neither wind nor water is an outside agency.

Partner

A "partner" is a player associated with another player on the same side.

In alternate shot and best-ball play, where the context so admits, the word "player" includes his partner or partners.

Penalty Stroke

A "penalty stroke" is one added to the score of a player or side under certain Rules. In alternate shot, penalty strokes do not affect the order of play.

Putting Green

The "putting green" is all ground of the hole being played that is specially prepared for putting or otherwise defined as such by the Committee. A ball is on the putting green when any part of it touches the putting green.

Referee

A "referee" is one who is appointed by the Committee to decide questions of fact and apply the Rules. He must act on any breach of a Rule that he observes or is reported to him.

A referee should not attend the flagstick, stand at or mark the position of the hole, or lift the ball or mark its location.

Round

A "round" consists of playing the holes of the course in their correct sequence, unless otherwise authorized by the Committee. The number of holes in a round is 18 unless a smaller number is authorized by the Committee. In match play, the Committee may specify that a match that is tied is to be extended until a winner is determined.

Rule or Rules

The term "Rule" includes:

The Rules of Golf and their interpretations as contained in "Decisions on the Rules of Golf";
Any Conditions of Competition established by the Committee under Rule 26-1 and Appendix I;
Any Local Rules established by the Committee under Rule 26-7a and Appendix I; and
The specifications on:
1. clubs and the ball in Appendices II and III and their interpretations as contained in "A Guide to the Rules on Clubs and Balls"; and
2. devices and other equipment in Appendix IV.

Side

A "side" is a player, or two or more players who are partners. In match play, each member of the opposing side is an opponent. In stroke play, members of all sides are players and members of different sides playing together are fellow-players.

Single

See "Forms of Play."

Standard Relief

"Standard relief" from a condition is taken by choosing from one of the following options:

Two club-length relief: A ball must be placed within two club-lengths of the reference point and not nearer the hole than that point.
Relief behind reference point: A ball must be placed behind the reference point keeping that point directly between the hole and the spot on which the ball is placed with no limit to how far behind the reference point the ball is placed (provided the ball is placed on the course).

The reference point is the location at which the ball lies unless the governing rule states otherwise.

Note 1: The governing rule may specify that two club-length relief may be applied repeatedly until interference, as defined within the governing rule, no longer exists.

Note 2: The governing rule may specify whether standard relief is optional (may be taken) or required (must be taken) and whether there is no penalty or whether there is a one-stroke penalty for taking such relief.

Note 3: The governing rule may restrict the part of the course on which the ball is to be placed. If no such restriction is imposed the ball may be placed on any part of the course.

Stroke

A "stroke" is the forward movement of the club made with the intention of striking at and moving the ball. If, however, a player's intent to strike the ball ceases and he is (i) able to stop his downswing voluntarily before the clubhead reaches the ball or (ii) otherwise avoids striking the ball, he has not made a stroke.

Substituted Ball

A "substituted ball" is a ball put into play for the original ball that was either in play or lifted.

Teeing Ground

The 'teeing ground' is the starting place for the hole to be played. It is a rectangular area two club-lengths in depth, the front and the sides of which are defined by the outside limits of two tee-markers. A ball is outside the teeing ground when all of it lies outside the teeing ground.

Temporary Water

"Temporary water" is any temporary accumulation of water on the course that is not in a water hazard and is visible before or after the player takes his stance. Snow and natural ice, other than frost, are either temporary water or loose impediments, at the option of the player. Manufactured ice is an obstruction. Dew and frost are not temporary water.

A ball is in temporary water when it lies in or any part of it touches the temporary water.

Through the Green

"Through the green" is the whole area of the course except:

The teeing ground and putting green of the hole being played; and
All hazards on the course.

Water Hazard

A "water hazard" is any sea, lake, pond, river, ditch, surface drainage ditch or other open water course (whether or not containing water) and anything of a similar nature on the course. All ground and water within the margin of a water hazard are part of the water hazard.

When the margin of a water hazard is defined by stakes, the stakes are inside the water hazard, and the margin of the hazard is defined by the nearest outside points of the stakes at ground level. When both stakes and lines are used to indicate a water hazard, the stakes identify the hazard and the lines define the hazard margin. When the margin of a water hazard is defined by a line on the ground, the line itself is in the water hazard. The margin of a water hazard extends vertically upwards and downwards.

A ball is in a water hazard when it lies in or any part of it touches the water hazard.

Stakes used to define the margin of or identify a water hazard are obstructions.

Note 1: The Committee may not define an area that is not an open water course to be a water hazard.

Note 2: Stakes or lines used to define the margin of or identify a water hazard must be yellow.

Note 3: The Committee may make a Local Rule prohibiting play from an environmentally-sensitive area defined as a water hazard.

Wrong Ball

A "wrong ball" is any ball other than the player's ball in play and includes:

another player's ball;
an abandoned ball; and
the player's original ball when it is no longer in play.

Note: Ball in play includes a ball substituted for the ball in play, whether or not the substitution is permitted.

Wrong Putting Green

A "wrong putting green" is any putting green other than that of the hole being played. Unless otherwise prescribed by the Committee, this term includes a practice putting green or pitching green on the course.

Section III - The Rules of Play

RULE 1 - The Game

1-1. General

Golf is played by playing a ball from the teeing ground into the hole by a stroke or succession of strokes. At each hole of the round, the player earns points based on the number of strokes required for him to complete the hole. Points are awarded in relation to par (or another fixed score as set by the Committee) for the hole as follows:

Hole Played In	Points
Three or more over par	0
Double Bogey (two over par)	1
Bogey (one over par)	2
Par	3
Birdie (one under par)	4
Eagle (two under par)	5
Three or more under par	6

1-2. Forms of Play

Golf can be played on an individual basis (i.e., each player competing against every other player) or by sides of players competing against other sides. When played by sides containing more than one player, the method of determining a side's score for a hole is specified by the Committee (e.g., whether the score is the sum of all, or a subset of all, of the side's members' scores or whether the score is only the number of points scored at that hole by the side's most successful player).

A competition can be played as stroke play or match play.

In stroke play, the player or side must return a score card on which the gross score for each hole is marked (and identifiable by the player who made that score when a side contains more than one player) and, in a handicap competition, the handicaps of each player on the side. In stroke play the winner is the side that scores the most points over the total number of holes in the competition.

In match play, each hole is treated as a separate competition and is won by the side that earns more points at that hole. The side that wins more holes (offset by any holes lost) is the winner. When a side is leading by more holes than there are holes remaining to be played, that side is the winner. A side may concede a match (or a hole or holes of that match).

1-3. Failure to Hole Out

A player who fails to hole out at any hole earns no points at that hole.

1-4. Agreement to Waive Rules

Players competing against one another are disqualified if they agree to exclude the operation of any Rule or to waive any penalty incurred. There is no time limit on applying the disqualification penalty for a breach of this Rule.

Exception: There is no penalty for agreeing to play out of turn unless when done to give one player an advantage (see Rule 7-3).

1-5. General Penalty

The penalty for a breach of a Rule is no points earned for that hole except when otherwise provided.

RULE 2 - Clubs

A player in doubt as to the conformity of a club should consult the USGA. A manufacturer should submit to the USGA a sample of a club to be manufactured for a ruling as to whether the club conforms with the Rules. The sample becomes the property of the USGA for reference purposes. If a manufacturer fails to submit a sample or, having submitted a sample, fails to await a ruling before manufacturing and/or marketing the club, the manufacturer assumes the risk of a ruling that the club does not conform with the Rules.

2-1. Form and Make of Clubs

Strokes must be made with clubs that conform with this Rule and the provisions, specifications and interpretations set forth in Appendix II.

Any driver used to make a stroke must have a clubhead, identified by model and loft, that is named on the current List of Conforming Driver Heads issued by the USGA.

2-2. Playing Characteristics Changed and Foreign Material

a. Playing Characteristics Changed

The player must not make a stroke with a club whose playing characteristics have been purposely changed during the round.

If a player repairs a club during a round, he is deemed to have changed the playing characteristics of that club.

b. Foreign Material

During the round, the player must not make a stroke with a club to which foreign material has been applied to the club face for the purpose of influencing the movement of the ball.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 2-1 or 2-2:
No points earned for any hole where the player made a stroke with such a club.

2-3. Damaged Clubs

a. Damage in Normal Course of Play

If, during a round, a player's club is damaged in the normal course of play, he may use the club in its damaged state for the remainder of the round.

b. Damage Other Than in Normal Course of Play

If, during a round, a player's club is damaged other than in the normal course of play rendering it non-conforming or changing its playing characteristics, the club must not subsequently be used during the remainder of that round. If the player makes a subsequent stroke in that round with that club, he earns no points for any holes where he used the damaged club.

Note: A club is considered to have been damaged other than in the normal course of play if the player has abused the club e.g., by throwing it, 'slamming' it into the bag, or using it to intentionally strike something except during a stroke or practice swing.

2-4. Maximum of Fourteen Clubs

The player may select up to 14 clubs for use during his round and is limited to those clubs for that round. When the player makes the first stroke of his round he is considered to have selected all of the clubs in his possession unless he has first declared one or more of those clubs to be out of play to a player on another side.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 2-4:
No points earned for any hole at which the player (a) has an excess of 14 selected clubs or (b) makes a stroke with a club that was not selected for play at the start of the round. Upon discovery of a breach of this Rule, the player must declare such a club or clubs out of play to a player on another side.

RULE 3 - Balls

A player in doubt as to the conformity of a ball should consult the USGA. A manufacturer should submit to the USGA samples of a ball to be manufactured for a ruling as to whether the ball conforms with the Rules. The samples become the property of the USGA for reference purposes. If a manufacturer fails to submit samples or, having submitted samples, fails to await a ruling before manufacturing and/or marketing the ball, the manufacturer assumes the risk of a ruling that the ball does not conform with the Rules.

3-1. General

Any ball played during the round must be named on the current List of Conforming Golf Balls issued by the USGA.

3-2. Foreign Material

The ball the player plays must not have foreign material applied to it for the purpose of changing its playing characteristics or have its playing characteristics purposely changed by any other means.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 3-1 or 3-2:
No points earned for any hole at which such a ball was used.

RULE 4 - The Player

4-1. Rules

The player and his caddie are responsible for knowing the Rules. During a round, for any breach of a Rule by his caddie, the player incurs the applicable penalty.

4-2. Handicap

a. Match Play

Before starting his match in a handicap competition, a player must inform his opponent of his own handicap. If he fails to do so or if he states an incorrect handicap, he is disqualified.

b. Stroke Play

In any round of a stroke-play handicap competition, the player must ensure that his handicap is recorded on his score card before it is returned to the Committee. If no handicap is recorded on his score card before it is returned (Rule 4-5b), or if the recorded handicap is incorrect, he is disqualified from the handicap competition.

It is the player's responsibility to know the holes at which handicap strokes are to be given or received.

4-3. Time of Starting and Groups

a. Time of Starting

The player must start at the time established by the Committee.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 4-3a:
If the player arrives at his starting point, ready to play, within three minutes after his starting time or if the player begins his round within three minutes before his starting time, the penalty for failure to start on time is earning no points at the player's first hole. If the player arrives at his starting hole more than three minutes after his starting time, or he is not ready to play within three minutes, he is disqualified.

Exception: Where the Committee determines that exceptional circumstances have prevented a player from starting on time, there is no penalty.

b. Groups

The player must remain throughout the round in the group arranged by the Committee, unless the Committee authorizes or ratifies a change.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 4-3b:
Disqualification.

(Best-ball — see Rule 25.)

4-4. Caddie

The player may be assisted by a caddie, but he is limited to only one caddie at any one time.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 4-4:
No points earned for any hole at which a breach occurred.
If a breach is discovered between the play of two holes, it is deemed to have been discovered during play of the next hole, and the penalty must be applied accordingly.

The Committee may, in the conditions of a competition (Rule 26-1), prohibit the use of caddies or restrict a player in his choice of caddie.

4-5. Scoring in Stroke Play

a. Indication of Penalties

In stroke play, if a player breaches a Rule for which the penalty is that he earns no points for that hole, his score card must either indicate no score for that hole or the fact that he incurred such a penalty on it.

Note: Players in a match are not required to keep a score card for their match. If they choose to do so, the score card has no official significance.

b. Signing and Returning Score Card

After completion of the round, the player should check his score for each hole and settle any doubtful points with the Committee. He must ensure that his marker (or markers if more than one marker has recorded scores during the round) has signed the score card, sign the score card himself and return it to the Committee as soon as possible.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 4-5a or b:
Disqualification.

c. Alteration of Score Card

After being submitted to the Committee by the player, the score card may not be altered. Unless the Committee has specified otherwise, the score card is considered to have been submitted when the player has left the scoring area.

d. Wrong Score for Hole

The player is responsible for the correctness of the score recorded for each hole on his score card. If he returns an incorrect score for any hole and this incorrect score affects the number of points earned for that hole, he is disqualified.

Note 1: In stroke play, the Committee is responsible for the determination of the points earned at each hole and for the round based on the number of strokes made and, in a handicap competition, the handicap recorded on the score card — see Rule 26-5.

Note 2: In best-ball stroke play, see Rule 25.

4-6. Undue Delay

The player must not unduly delay play during the round.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 4-6:
No points earned for that hole.

Note: If the player unduly delays play between holes, he is delaying the play of the next hole and earns no points at the next hole.

4-7. Discontinuance of Play; Resumption of Play

a. When Permitted

If the player discontinues play without specific permission from the Committee, he must report to the Committee as soon as practicable. If he does so and the Committee considers his reason satisfactory, there is no penalty. Otherwise, the player is disqualified.

Note: Leaving the course does not of itself constitute discontinuance of play.

b. Procedure When Play Suspended by Committee

When play is suspended by the Committee, the players must stop playing immediately.

The players must resume play when the Committee has ordered a resumption of play.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 4-7b:
Disqualification.

c. Lifting Ball When Play Discontinued

When a player discontinues play of a hole under Rule 4-7a, he may lift his ball, without penalty.

d. Procedure When Play Resumed Following Suspension by the Committee

Play must be resumed from where it was discontinued, even if resumption occurs on a subsequent day. Following a discontinuance of play, the player must, either before or when play is resumed, proceed as follows:

if the player has lifted the ball, place the original ball or a substituted ball on the spot from which the original ball was lifted;
if the player has not lifted his ball, he may, lift, clean and replace the ball, or substitute a ball, on the spot from which the original ball was lifted. Before lifting the ball he must mark its location (Rule 17-1); or
if the player's ball or ball-marker is moved (including by wind or water) while play is discontinued, a ball or ball-marker must be placed on the spot from which the original ball or ball-marker was moved.

Note: If the spot where a ball is to be placed is impossible to determine, it must be estimated and a ball placed on the estimated spot.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 4-7d:
No points earned for that hole.

RULE 5 - Practice

5-1. Before or Between Rounds

Before a round or play-off a player must not:

make strokes on the competition course
test the surface of any putting green on the course by rolling a ball or roughening or scraping the surface.

When two or more rounds are scheduled on consecutive days such practicing and testing are prohibited between rounds on any course remaining to be played by the player.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 5-1:
Disqualification.

Note: The Committee may, in the conditions of a competition (Rule 26-1), permit practice on the competition course or part of the course on any day of a round or between rounds of a competition.

5-2. During Round

A player must not make a practice stroke during his round.

Exception: When play has been suspended by the Committee, a player may, prior to resumption of play, practice (a) anywhere other than on the competition course and (b) as otherwise permitted by the Committee.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 5-2:
No points earned for that hole.
In the event of a breach between the play of two holes, the penalty applies to the next hole.

Note 1: A practice swing is not a practice stroke and may be taken at any place, provided the player does not breach the Rules.

Note 2: The competition course includes only areas of the course on which it would be reasonable for a ball to come to rest during play and any other areas as stated by the Committee.

Note 3: Strokes made in continuing the play of a hole whose result has been decided (i.e., when it is no longer possible for a player to earn points at this hole or when a hole has been conceded in match play) are not practice strokes and are therefore permitted.

RULE 6 - Advice

During his round, a player must not:

give advice to anyone in the competition other than a member of his side, or
ask for advice from anyone other than another member of his side or a caddie for a member of his side.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
No points earned for that hole.

Note: The Committee may, in the conditions of a team competition (Rule 26-1), permit each team to appoint one person who may give advice to members of that team. The Committee may establish conditions relating to the appointment and permitted conduct of that person, who must be identified to the Committee before giving advice.

RULE 7 - Order of Play

7-1. When Starting Play of Hole

The order of play at the first teeing ground is determined by the order of the tee sheet. In the absence of a tee sheet, the order of play should be decided by lot. The player with the lowest score at a hole plays first at the next teeing ground. The player with the second lowest score plays next and so on. If two or more players have the same score at a hole, they play from the next teeing ground in the same order as at the previous teeing ground.

7-2. During Play of Hole

After the players have started play of the hole, the ball farthest from the hole is played first. If two or more balls are equidistant from the hole or their positions relative to the hole are not determinable, the ball to be played first should be decided by lot.

Exception 1: Rule 18-2 (ball interfering with play).

Exception 2: Rule 25-2 (best-ball play).

7-3. Playing Out of Turn

If a player plays out of turn, there is no penalty and the ball is played as it lies. If, however, the Committee determines that players have agreed to play out of turn for the purpose of giving one of them an advantage, they are disqualified.

(Making stroke while another ball in motion after stroke from putting green — see Rule 13-1d.)

(Incorrect sequence of play in alternate shot play — see Rule 24-2.)

RULE 8 - Teeing Ground

8-1. Teeing

When a player is putting a ball into play from the teeing ground, it must be played from within the teeing ground and from the surface of the ground or from a conforming tee (see Appendix IV) in or on the surface of the ground.

For the purposes of this Rule, the surface of the ground includes an irregularity of surface (whether or not created by the player) and sand or other natural substance (whether or not placed by the player).

If a player makes a stroke at a ball on a non-conforming tee, or at a ball teed in a manner not permitted by this Rule, he earns no points at that hole.

A player may stand outside the teeing ground to play a ball within it.

8-2. Tee-Markers

The tee-markers of the player's teeing ground are deemed to be immovable obstructions during play of that hole. If a player moves or allows to be moved a tee-marker for his teeing ground for the purpose of avoiding interference with his stance, the area of intended swing or his line of play, he earns no points for that hole. The tee-markers for another teeing ground are movable obstructions for the player.

8-3. Playing from Outside Teeing Ground (Including a Wrong Teeing Ground)

If a player, when starting a hole or when electing or being required to play from the teeing ground, plays a ball from outside the teeing ground (including from a wrong teeing ground), he earns no points at that hole.

RULE 9 - Striking the Ball

9-1. Ball to be Fairly Struck

The ball must be fairly struck at with the head of the club and must not be pushed or spooned. A ball that has been fairly struck is only in contact with the club head momentarily.

9-2. Physical Assistance

A player must not make a stroke while accepting physical assistance from someone else.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 9-1 or 9-2:
No points earned for that hole.

9-3. Aids and Unusual Use of Equipment

The USGA reserves the right, at any time, to change the Rules relating to aids and the unusual use of equipment, and to make or change the interpretations relating to these Rules.

A player in doubt as to whether use of an item would constitute a breach of Rule 9-3 should consult the USGA.

A manufacturer should submit to the USGA a sample of an item to be manufactured for a ruling as to whether its use during a round would cause a player to be in breach of Rule 9-3. The sample becomes the property of the USGA for reference purposes. If a manufacturer fails to submit a sample or, having submitted a sample, fails to await a ruling before manufacturing and/or marketing the item, the manufacturer assumes the risk of a ruling that use of the item would be contrary to the Rules.

Except as provided in the Rules, during a round the player must not use any aid (see Appendix IV for detailed specifications and interpretations) or use any equipment in an unusual manner that might assist him in making a stroke.

Exception: A player is not in breach of this Rule if (a) the aid is designed for or has the effect of alleviating a medical condition, (b) the player has a legitimate medical reason to use the equipment or device, and (c) the Committee is satisfied that its use does not give the player any undue advantage over other players.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 9-3:
Disqualification.

9-4. Striking the Ball More Than Once

If a player's club strikes the ball more than once in the course of a stroke, the player must count the stroke and add a penalty stroke, making two strokes in all.

RULE 10 - Seeing Ball; Searching for Ball

A player is not necessarily entitled to see his ball when making a stroke.

In searching for his ball, a player may do what is reasonable and necessary to find his ball (e.g., part tall grass, remove sand covering the ball, probe for it in water). If the ball is moved during search, there is no penalty, and the ball must be replaced.

Note: If the original lie of a ball to be replaced has been altered, see Exception 1 to Rule 17-2a(ii).

(Improving lie, area of intended stance or swing, or line of play — see Rule 11-3.)

RULE 11 - Ball Played as It Lies

11-1. General

The ball must be played as it lies, except as otherwise provided in the Rules.

11-2. Removal of Loose Impediments

A loose impediment may be moved without penalty. If the removal of a loose impediment causes the ball to move, Rule 15 applies.

Exception: When a ball is in motion, a loose impediment may not be moved for the purpose of influencing the movement of the ball — see Rule 11-4.

11-3. Improving Environment of the Ball

A player must not intentionally improve or allow to be improved the environment of his ball or intentionally improve or worsen the environment of another player's ball by any of the following actions:

pressing a club on the ground,
moving, bending or breaking anything growing or fixed (including immovable obstructions),
creating or eliminating irregularities of surface,
removing or pressing down sand, loose soil, replaced divots or other cut turf placed in position, or
removing dew, frost or water.

Exception: The player incurs no penalty if the action occurs:

in creating or eliminating irregularities of surface within the teeing ground or in removing dew, frost or water from the teeing ground, or
on the putting green in removing sand and loose soil or in repairing damage (Rule 13-1b).

11-4. Exerting Influence on Movement of Ball

A player must not take an action with the intent to influence the movement of a ball in play.

When a ball is in motion, equipment of any player or the flagstick (except when it is unattended and in the hole) may be moved for any reason. Any other obstruction may not be moved for the purpose of influencing a ball in motion.

*PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 11-4:
No points earned for that hole.
*In the case of a serious breach of Rule 11-4, the Committee may impose a penalty of disqualification.

Note 1: A player is deemed to have committed a serious breach of Rule 11-4 if the Committee considers that the action taken in breach of this Rule has allowed him or another player to gain a significant advantage or has placed another player, other than his partner, at a significant disadvantage.

Note 2: In stroke play, except where a serious breach resulting in disqualification is involved, a player in breach of Rule 11-4 in relation to the movement of his own ball must play the ball from where it came to rest. If the movement of a player's ball has been intentionally influenced by a fellow-player or other outside agency, Rule 27-3 applies to the player.

11-5. Building Stance

A player is entitled to place his feet firmly in taking his stance, but he must not build a stance. A certain amount of digging in with the feet in the sand or soil is permitted when taking the stance for a stroke.

11-6. Testing Condition of Hazard

Before making a stroke at a ball that is in a hazard (whether a bunker or a water hazard) or that, having been lifted from a hazard, may be placed in the hazard, the player must not test the condition of the hazard (or another hazard of the same type) by probing the ground in the hazard or by touching the ground in the hazard with practice swings.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
No points earned for that hole.

RULE 12 - Substituted Ball; Wrong Ball

12-1. General

A player must hole out with the ball played from the teeing ground unless the player substitutes another ball, whether or not substitution is permitted (see Rule 12-2). If a player plays a wrong ball, see Rule 12-3.

12-2. Substituted Ball

A player may substitute a ball when the ball has been lifted. The substituted ball becomes the ball in play.

12-3. Wrong Ball

If a player plays a wrong ball, there is no penalty and he must then play the correct ball.

(Failure to hole out — see Rule 1-3.)

RULE 13 - The Putting Green

13-1. General

a. Lifting and Cleaning Ball

A ball on the putting green may be lifted and, if desired, cleaned. The location of the ball must be marked before it is lifted and the ball must be replaced (see Rule 17-1). When another ball is in motion, a ball must not be lifted for the purpose of influencing the movement of the ball in motion (Rule 11-4).

b. Repair of Hole Plugs, Ball Marks and Other Damage

The player may repair an old hole plug or damage to the putting green caused by the impact of a ball, whether or not the player's ball lies on the putting green. Any other damage to the putting green must not be repaired if doing so improves the environment of the ball (see Rule 11-3).

c. Testing Surface

During his round, a player must not roll a ball or roughen or scrape the surface for the purpose of testing the condition of any putting green.

d. Making Stroke While Another Ball in Motion

The player must not make a stroke when he knows that another ball is in motion after a stroke from the putting green.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 13-1:
No points earned for that hole.

(Wrong putting green — see Rule 20-4.)

13-2. Ball Overhanging Hole

When any part of the ball overhangs the lip of the hole, the player is allowed enough time to reach the hole without unreasonable delay and an additional ten seconds to determine whether the ball is at rest. If by then the ball has not fallen into the hole, it is deemed to be at rest. If the ball subsequently falls into the hole, the player is deemed to have holed out with his last stroke, and must add a penalty stroke to his score for the hole; otherwise, there is no penalty under this Rule.

RULE 14 - The Flagstick

14-1. Flagstick Attended, Removed or Held Up

Before making a stroke from anywhere on the course, the player may have the flagstick attended, removed or held up to indicate the position of the hole.

If the flagstick is not attended, removed or held up before the player makes a stroke, it must not be attended, removed or held up by anyone during the stroke or while the player's ball is in motion for the purpose influencing the movement of the ball (see Rule 11-4).

Note 1: If the flagstick is in the hole and anyone stands near it while a stroke is being made, he is deemed to be attending the flagstick.

Note 2: If, prior to the stroke, the flagstick is attended, removed or held up by anyone with the player's knowledge and he makes no objection, the player is deemed to have authorized it.

(Moving attended, removed or held-up flagstick while ball in motion — see Rule 19-1.)

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 14-1:
No points earned for that hole.

14-2. Ball Resting Against Flagstick

When a player's ball rests against the flagstick in the hole and the ball is not holed, the player or another person authorized by him may move or remove the flagstick, and if the ball falls into the hole, the player is deemed to have holed out with his last stroke; otherwise, the ball, if moved, must be placed on the lip of the hole, without penalty.

RULE 15 - Ball at Rest Moved

If the player, his partner, or either of their caddies intentionally moves the player's ball at rest (including by lifting it when not authorized to do so), the player incurs a penalty of one stroke.

If the player's ball at rest is moved (a) accidentally by the player, his partner, or his caddie or (b) accidentally or intentionally by any other person or an animal, there is no penalty.

A ball that has been moved as described above must be replaced. If the player plays the ball without properly replacing it, he earns no points for that hole.

RULE 16 - Ball in Motion Deflected or Stopped

If a player's ball in motion is accidentally deflected, there is no penalty and the ball must be played from where it comes to rest unless another Rule applies. If the ball comes to rest on a person or in or on a person's clothing, the ball must be placed as near as possible to the spot directly beneath where the ball lay on the person or clothing. If the player does not do so, he earns no points for that hole.

RULE 17 - Lifting and Placing; Playing from Wrong Place

17-1. Marking and Lifting

A ball to be lifted under the Rules may be lifted by the player, his partner, either of their caddies or another person authorized by the player. In any such case, the player is responsible for any breach of the Rules.

The location of the ball must be marked before it is lifted under a Rule that requires the player to play from that location. If it is not marked, the player incurs a penalty of one stroke and a ball must be placed at that location. If the player plays from a different location, he earns no points for the hole.

If a ball or ball-marker is accidentally moved in lifting the ball under a Rule or marking its location, there is no penalty and the ball or ball-marker must be replaced.

Note: The location of a ball to be lifted should be marked by placing a ball-marker, a small coin or other similar object immediately behind the ball. There is not necessarily a penalty if the player uses another method to mark the location of the ball provided that the location of the ball is marked with sufficient accuracy. If the ball-marker interferes with the play, stance or stroke of another player, it should be placed one or more clubhead-lengths to one side.

17-2. Placing and Replacing

a. By Whom and Where

A ball to be placed under the Rules must be placed by the player, his partner, either of their caddies or someone authorized by the player. If the ball is placed by any other person and the player makes a stroke at the ball, the player incurs a penalty of one stroke. In any such case, the player is responsible for any other breach of the Rules that occurs as a result of the placing of the ball.
If a ball or ball-marker is accidentally moved in placing or replacing a ball or in removing the ball-marker, there is no penalty and the ball or ball-marker must be replaced.

If a ball is placed in a wrong place and played, the player earns no points for the hole.
When a player is required to replace a moved or lifted ball in its original location, he, his partner, either of their caddies or someone authorized by the player must place the ball in that location.
If a ball to be replaced is not correctly replaced and is played, the player earns no points for the hole.

Exceptions:

If the original lie of a ball to be placed or replaced has been altered, the ball must be placed in the nearest lie most similar to the original lie that is not more than one club-length from the original and not nearer the hole.
If it is impossible to determine the spot where the ball is to be placed or replaced, the spot must be estimated and the ball placed on that estimated spot.

b. Ball Fails to Come to Rest on Spot

If a ball when placed fails to come to rest on the spot on which it was placed, there is no penalty and the ball must be placed a second time on that spot. If it still fails to come to rest on that spot, it must be placed at the nearest spot where it can be placed at rest that is not nearer the hole.

If a ball when placed comes to rest on the spot on which it is placed, and it subsequently moves, there is no penalty and the ball must be played as it lies, unless the provisions of any other Rule apply.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 17-1 or 17-2:
No points for that hole.

17-3. Making Next Stroke from Where Previous Stroke Made

When a player elects to make his next stroke from where a previous stroke was made, he must, except on the teeing ground, place the ball within a club-length of and not nearer the hole than the spot where the previous stroke was made. If this spot is not known, it must be estimated and the ball placed within a club-length of and not nearer the hole than that estimated spot. On the teeing ground, the ball must be played from the teeing ground and may be teed anywhere within the teeing ground.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE 17-3:
No points for that hole.

17-4. Lifting Ball Incorrectly Substituted or Placed

A ball incorrectly substituted or placed in a wrong place or otherwise not in accordance with the Rules but not played may be lifted, without penalty, and the player must then proceed correctly.

17-5. Playing from Wrong Place

If a player makes a stroke from a wrong place, he earns no points for that hole.

RULE 18 - Ball Interfering with Play

If a player considers that another ball might interfere with his play, he may have it lifted.

A ball lifted under this Rule must be replaced (see Rule 17-2).

A player required to lift his ball may play first rather than lift the ball. If a player who has been asked to lift his ball fails to lift his ball or to play first, he earns no points for the hole

(Lifting ball while another ball is in motion for the purpose of influencing the movement of the ball in motion — see Rule 11-4.)

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
No points earned for that hole.

RULE 19 - Obstructions and Abnormal Ground Conditions

19-1. Movable Obstructions

A player may take relief, without penalty, from a movable obstruction as follows:

If the ball does not lie in or on the obstruction, the obstruction may be removed. If the ball moves, it must be replaced without penalty.
If the ball lies in or on the obstruction, the ball may be lifted and the obstruction removed. The ball must be placed as near as possible to the spot directly under the place where the ball lay in or on the obstruction, but not nearer the hole.

Note: If a ball to be replaced under this Rule is not immediately recoverable, another ball may be substituted.

19-2. Immovable Obstructions and Abnormal Ground Conditions

a. Interference

Interference by an immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition occurs when a ball lies in or on the obstruction or abnormal ground condition, or when the obstruction or abnormal ground condition interferes with the player's stance or the area of his intended swing. Intervention on the line of play or line of putt is not, of itself, interference under this Rule.

b. Relief

If a player elects to take relief from interference by an immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition, he must proceed as follows:

Through the Green: If the ball lies through the green, the player must take standard relief, without penalty, at a spot through the green. The player may apply the two club-length relief option repeatedly if necessary to eliminate interference.
In a Bunker: If the ball is in a bunker, the player must take standard relief either:

Without penalty, in accordance with Clause (i) above, except that the ball must be placed in the bunker. If complete relief is impossible using standard relief, the ball may be placed anywhere in the bunker that is not nearer the hole than where the ball lay; or
Under penalty of one stroke, outside the bunker.
In either case, the player may apply the two club-length relief option repeatedly if necessary to eliminate interference.

On the Putting Green: If the ball lies on the putting green, the player must take standard relief, without penalty at a spot on the putting green or through the green. The player may apply the two club-length relief option repeatedly if necessary to eliminate interference.

A player may not take relief under this Rule if (a) interference by anything other than the immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition from which he is seeking relief makes the stroke clearly impracticable or (b) interference by that immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition would occur only through use of a clearly unreasonable stroke or an unnecessarily abnormal stance, swing or direction of play.

If a ball is in a water hazard, the player may not take relief from interference by an immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition. The player must play the ball as it lies or proceed under Rule 22.

Note 2: If a ball to be placed under this Rule is not immediately recoverable, another ball may be substituted.

19-3. Ball in Obstruction or Abnormal Ground Condition Not Found

It is a question of fact whether a ball that has not been found after having been struck toward an obstruction or abnormal ground condition is in the obstruction or abnormal ground condition. In order to apply this Rule, it must be known or virtually certain that the ball is in the obstruction or abnormal ground condition. If such knowledge or certainty cannot be established within three minutes of search for the ball, the ball is lost (Rule 21-2) and the player earns no points for the hole.

a. Ball in Movable Obstruction Not Found

If it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in a movable obstruction, the player may substitute another ball and take relief, without penalty, under this Rule. If he elects to do so, he must remove the obstruction and place a ball as near as possible to the spot directly under the place where the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the movable obstruction, but not nearer the hole.

b. Ball in Immovable Obstruction or Abnormal Ground Condition Not Found

If it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in an immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition, the player may take relief under this Rule as follows:

Through the Green: If the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition at a spot through the green, the player may substitute another ball and take standard relief without penalty using the spot where the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the obstruction or abnormal ground condition as the reference point and placing the ball at a spot through the green.
In a Bunker: If the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition at a spot in a bunker, the player may substitute another ball and take standard relief using the spot where the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the obstruction or abnormal ground condition as the reference point either:
1. without penalty and placing the ball at a spot in the bunker. If complete relief is impossible using standard relief, the ball may be placed anywhere in the bunker that is not nearer the hole than the reference point; or
2. under penalty of one stroke placing the ball outside of the bunker.
In a Water Hazard: If the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition at a spot in a water hazard, the player is not entitled to relief without penalty. The player must proceed under Rule 22.
On the Putting Green: If the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the immovable obstruction or abnormal ground condition at a spot on the putting green, the player may substitute another ball and take standard relief without penalty using the spot where the ball last crossed the outermost limits of the obstruction or abnormal ground condition as the reference point and placing the ball at a spot on the putting green or through the green.

Note: When taking standard relief under Rule 19-3b, the player may apply the two club-length option only once.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
No points earned for that hole.

RULE 20 - Embedded Ball; Aeration Holes; Seams of Cut Turf; Wrong Putting Green

20-1. Embedded Ball

Through the green, a ball that is embedded in its own pitch-mark in the ground may be lifted, without penalty, cleaned and placed within one club-length at a point through the green that is not in the pitch-mark and not nearer the hole than the ball's original location.

20-2. Aeration Holes

Through the green, a ball that comes to rest in or on an aeration hole may be lifted, without penalty, and placed within one club-length of a point through the green that is not in an aeration hole and not nearer the hole than the ball's original location.

On the putting green, a ball that comes to rest in or on an aeration hole may be lifted, without penalty, and placed immediately next to the ball's original location at a spot that is either on the putting green or through the green and is not in an aeration hole and is not nearer the hole than the ball's original location.

20-3. Seams of Cut Turf

Through the green, a ball that comes to rest in a seam of cut turf or where a seam interferes with the area of intended swing may, without penalty, be lifted and placed within one club-length at a point through the green that is not in or on a seam of cut turf and is not nearer the hole than the ball's original location.

On the putting green, a ball that comes to rest in a seam of cut turf or where a seam interferes with the area of intended swing may, without penalty, be lifted and placed immediately next to the ball's original location at a point that is either on the putting green or through the green that is not in or on a seam of cut turf and is not nearer the hole than the ball's original location.

20-4. Wrong Putting Green

If a player's ball lies on a wrong putting green, he must not play the ball as it lies. He must take relief, without penalty, by lifting the ball and placing it within one club-length of the nearest point that is through the green, not on the wrong putting green, and not nearer the hole than the ball's original location.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
No points earned for that hole.

RULE 21 - Stroke and Distance; Ball Lost or Out of Bounds

21-1. Proceeding Under Stroke and Distance

When the player's ball lies on the course and its location is known (or it is virtually certain that the ball lies in an obstruction, abnormal ground condition, or water hazard), he may proceed under penalty of stroke and distance i.e., make his next stroke from as nearly as possible the spot of his previous stroke (see Rule 17-3) incurring a one-stroke penalty.

If a ball is placed at the spot from which the previous stroke was made and played, the player is deemed to have proceeded under penalty of stroke and distance unless he was proceeding under a Local Rule that required him to cancel and replay his stroke without penalty.

Note: The player may proceed under Rule 19 or 22 if applicable.

21-2. Ball Out of Bounds or Lost Because Not Found Within Three Minutes

If a ball is out of bounds or lost as a result of not being found or identified as his by the player within three minutes after the player's side or a caddie of his side has begun to search for it, the player earns no points for that hole.

Exception: If the original ball, that has not been found, has been moved (Rule 15) or it is known or virtually certain that it is in an obstruction or abnormal ground condition (Rule 19) or a water hazard (Rule 22), the player may proceed under the applicable Rule.

RULE 22 - Relief for Ball in a Water Hazard

It is a question of fact whether a ball that has not been found after having been struck toward a water hazard is in the hazard.

If a ball is found in a water hazard or if it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in the water hazard (whether the ball lies in water or not), the player may, under penalty of one stroke, take standard relief using the spot where the ball last crossed the margin of the water hazard as his reference point for such relief and placing the ball on a spot outside of the water hazard.

If knowledge or virtual certainty that the ball is in the water hazard cannot be established within three minutes of search for the ball, the player earns no points for the hole (Rule 21-2).

Note: A player using the two club-length option for standard relief may do so only once when proceeding under this Rule.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE: No points earned for that hole.

RULE 23 - Ball Unplayable

The player may deem his ball unplayable at any place on the course. The player is the sole judge as to whether his ball is unplayable.

If the player deems his ball to be unplayable, he must:

Proceed under the stroke-and-distance provision of Rule 21-1 by playing a ball as near as possible to the spot from which the original ball was last played (see Rule 17-3); or
Take standard relief under penalty of one stroke using the location of the ball as the reference point for such relief. If the ball lay in the bunker, the player must place the ball in the bunker.

Note: A player using the two club-length option for standard relief may do so only once when proceeding under this Rule.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
No points earned for that hole.

RULE 24 - Alternate Shot

24-1. General

In alternate shot, during any round the partners must play alternately from the teeing grounds and alternately during the play of each hole. Penalty strokes do not affect the order of play.

24-2. Playing Out of Sequence

If a player plays when his partner should have played, the side earns no points for that hole.

RULE 25 - Best-Ball Play

25-1. Representation of Side

A side may be represented by one partner for all or any part of a round; all partners need not be present. An absent partner may join his side between holes (i.e., before any player in the group has started play of that hole), but not during play of a hole.

25-2. Order of Play

Balls belonging to the same side may be played in the order the side considers best.

25-3. Disqualification of Side

A side is disqualified if any partner incurs a penalty of disqualification under any of the following:
- Rule 1-4 Agreement to Waive Rules
- Rule 4-2 Handicap
- Rule 4-4 Caddie
- Rule 9-3 Aids and Unusual Use of Equipment
- Rule 27-4 Disqualification Penalty Imposed by Committee
A side is disqualified if all partners incur a penalty of disqualification under any of the following:
- Rule 4-3 Time of Starting and Groups
- Rule 4-7 Discontinuance of Play
In all other cases where a breach of a Rule would result in disqualification, the player is disqualified for that hole only (i.e., he earns no points for that hole).

25-4. Effect of Other Penalties

If a player's breach of a Rule assists his partner's play or adversely affects an opponent's play, the partner incurs the applicable penalty in addition to any penalty incurred by the player.

In all other cases where a player incurs a penalty for breach of a Rule, the penalty does not apply to his partner.

RULE 26 - The Committee

26-1. Conditions; Waiving Rule

The Committee must establish the conditions under which a competition is to be played.

The Committee has no power to waive a Rule of Golf.

When match play and stroke play are played simultaneously, the concession of a hole has no relevance to the player's stroke play score i.e., the ball must be holed in order for the player to earn points for that hole in the stroke play competition.

In stroke play, the Committee may limit a referee's duties.

26-2. The Course

a. Defining Bounds and Margins

The Committee must define accurately:

the course and out of bounds,
the margins of water hazards,
the status and margins of bunkers if necessary,
ground under repair, and
obstructions and integral parts of the course.

b. New Holes

New holes should be made on the day on which a stroke-play competition begins and at such other times as the Committee considers necessary, provided all players in a single round play with each hole cut in the same position.

Exception: When it is impossible for a damaged hole to be repaired so that it conforms with the Definition, the Committee may make a new hole in a nearby similar position.

Where a single round is to be played on more than one day, the Committee may provide, in the conditions of a competition (Rule 26-1), that the holes and teeing grounds may be differently situated on each day of the competition, provided that, on any one day, all players play with each hole and each teeing ground in the same position.

c. Course Unplayable

If the Committee or its authorized representative considers that for any reason the course is not in a playable condition or that there are circumstances that render the proper playing of the game impossible, it may, in match play or stroke play, order a temporary suspension of play or declare play null and void and cancel all scores for the round in question. When a round is canceled, all penalties incurred in that round are canceled.

(Procedure in discontinuing and resuming play — see Rule 4-7)

26-3. Times of Starting and Groups

The Committee must establish the times of starting and, in stroke play, arrange the groups in which players must play.

When a match play competition is played over an extended period, the Committee establishes the limit of time within which each round must be completed. When players are allowed to arrange the date of their match within these limits, the Committee should announce that the match must be played at a stated time on the last day of the period, unless the players agree to a prior date.

26-4. Handicap Stroke Table

The Committee must publish a table indicating the order of holes at which handicap strokes are to be given or received.

26-5. Score Card in Stroke Play

The Committee must provide each side with a score card containing the date and the player's name (or players' names when the sides are comprised of more than one player).

In best-ball stroke play, the Committee is responsible for determining the side's score for each hole from the scores recorded for each member of the side at that hole.

The Committee is responsible for applying the handicaps in a net competition and for determining the points earned for each hole and the overall points total.

Note: The Committee may request that the date and names be recorded on the score card by the players.

26-6. Decision of Ties

The Committee must announce the manner, day and time for the decision of a halved match or of a tie, whether played on level terms or under handicap.

26-7. Local Rules

a. Policy

The Committee may establish Local Rules for local abnormal conditions if they are consistent with the policy set forth in Appendix I.

b. Waiving or Modifying a Rule

A Rule of Golf must not be waived by a Local Rule. However, if a Committee considers that local abnormal conditions interfere with the proper playing of the game to the extent that it is necessary to make a Local Rule that modifies the Rules of Golf, the Local Rule must be authorized by the USGA.

RULE 27 - Disputes and Decisions

27-1. Penalties

A penalty of disqualification may be imposed after the competition has closed; any other penalty must not be rescinded or modified after the competition has closed. A competition is closed when the result has been officially announced or, in stroke play qualifying followed by match play, when the player has teed off in his first match.

27-2. Committee's Decision

Any dispute or doubtful point on the Rules must be referred to a referee, whose decision is final.

If the Committee cannot come to a decision, it may refer the dispute or doubtful point to the Rules of Golf Committee of the USGA, whose decision is final.

If the dispute or doubtful point has not been referred to the Rules of Golf Committee, the player or players may request that an agreed statement be referred through a duly authorized representative of the Committee to the Rules of Golf Committee for an opinion as to the correctness of the decision given. The reply will be sent to this authorized representative.

If play is conducted other than in accordance with the Rules of Golf, the Rules of Golf Committee will not give a decision on any question.

27-3. Equity

Decisions made by the Committee should be made according to equity i.e., in a manner consistent with similar situations explicitly covered by the Rules of Golf. The use of equity is appropriate when a point in dispute is not covered by the Rules; a judgment as to facts is required to determine which Rule or Rules apply; a conflict exists between Rules; or a strict application of the Rules would result in a grossly unreasonable outcome.

27-4. Disqualification Penalty; Committee Discretion

A penalty of disqualification may in exceptional individual cases be waived, modified or imposed if the Committee considers such action warranted.

Except as provided in Rule 27-4, a penalty of disqualification may not be waived or modified.

If the Committee considers that a player is guilty of a serious breach of etiquette, it may impose a penalty of disqualification under this Rule.

APPENDIX I - Local Rules; Conditions of the Competition

Part A - Local Rules

As provided in Rule 26-7a, the Committee may make and publish Local Rules for local abnormal conditions if they are consistent with the policy established in this Appendix. In addition, detailed information regarding acceptable and prohibited Local Rules is provided in "Decisions on the Rules of Golf" under Rule 26-7 and in "How to Conduct a Competition."

If local abnormal conditions interfere with the proper playing of the game and the Committee considers it necessary to modify a Rule of Golf, authorization from the USGA must be obtained.

1. Defining Bounds and Margins

Specifying means used to define out of bounds, water hazards, bunkers, ground under repair, obstructions and integral parts of the course (Rule 26-2a).

2. Areas of the Course Requiring Preservation; Environmentally-Sensitive Areas

Assisting preservation of the course by defining areas, including turf nurseries, young plantations and other parts of the course under cultivation, as ground under repair from which play is prohibited.

When the Committee is required to prohibit entry into and/or play from environmentally-sensitive areas that are on or adjoin the course, it should make a Local Rule clarifying the relief procedure.

a. Ground Under Repair; Play Prohibited

If the Committee wishes to protect any area of the course, it should declare it to be ground under repair and prohibit play from within that area. The following Local Rule is recommended:

"The _____________(defined by ____) is ground under repair from which play is prohibited. If a player's ball lies in the area, or if the area interferes with the player's stance or the area of his intended swing, the player must take relief under Rule 19-2.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

b. Environmentally-Sensitive Areas

If an appropriate authority (i.e., a Government Agency or the like) prohibits entry into and/or play from an area on or adjoining the course for environmental reasons, the Committee should make a Local Rule clarifying the relief procedure.

The Committee has some discretion in terms of whether the area is defined as ground under repair, a water hazard or out of bounds. However, it may not simply define the area to be a water hazard if it does not meet the Definition of a "Water Hazard" and it should attempt to preserve the character of the hole.

The following Local Rule is recommended:

I. Definition

An environmentally-sensitive area (ESA) is an area so declared by an appropriate authority, entry into and/or play from which is prohibited for environmental reasons. These areas may be defined as ground under repair, a water hazard or out of bounds at the discretion of the Committee, provided that in the case of an ESA that has been defined as a water hazard the area meets the Definition of "Water Hazard."

Note: The Committee may not declare an area to be environmentally-sensitive.

II. Ball in Environmentally-Sensitive Area

a. Ground Under Repair

If a ball is in an ESA defined as ground under repair, a ball must be placed in accordance with Rule 19-2, using as the reference point the spot where the ball last crossed the outermost limit of the ground under repair. He must continue to take relief until he has no interference from the ESA.

If it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in an ESA defined as ground under repair, the player may take relief, without penalty, as prescribed in Rule 19-3.

b. Water Hazards

If the ball is found in or if it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in an ESA defined as a water hazard, the player must, under penalty of one stroke, proceed under Rule 22.

Note: If a ball, placed in accordance with Rule 22 rolls into a position where the ESA interferes with the player's stance or the area of his intended swing, the player must take relief as provided in Clause III of this Local Rule.

c. Out of Bounds

If a ball is in an ESA defined as out of bounds, the player earns no points for the hole.

III. Interference with Stance or Area of Intended Swing

Interference by an ESA occurs when the ESA interferes with the player's stance or the area of his intended swing. If the ball lies outside the ESA but interference with the ESA exists, the player must take relief as follows:

Through the Green: If the ball lies through the green, the player must take standard relief, without penalty, at a spot through the green. The player must take standard relief until he has no interference from the ESA.
In a Bunker: If the ball is in a bunker, the player must take standard relief either:
1. Without penalty, in accordance with Clause (i) above, except that the ball must be placed in the bunker and the player must continue to take relief from the ESA in the bunker until there is no interference from the ESA. If complete relief is impossible using standard relief, the ball must be placed anywhere in the bunker that is not nearer the hole than where the ball lay; or
2. Under penalty of one stroke, outside the bunker.
On the Putting Green: If the ball lies on the putting green, the player must take standard relief, without penalty at a spot on the putting green or through the green. The player must take standard relief until he has no interference from the ESA.

Exception: A player may not take relief under Clause III of this Local Rule if (a) interference by anything other than an ESA makes the stroke clearly impracticable or (b) interference by an ESA would occur only through use of a clearly unreasonable stroke or an unnecessarily abnormal stance, swing or direction of play.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

c. Protection of Young Trees

When it is desired to prevent damage to young trees, the following Local Rule is recommended:

"Protection of young trees identified by ______. If such a tree interferes with a player's stance or the area of his intended swing, the ball must be lifted, without penalty, and placed in accordance with the procedure prescribed in Rule 19-2b (Immovable Obstructions and Abnormal Ground Conditions). If the ball lies in a water hazard, the player must take standard relief within the water hazard or proceed under Rule 22.

Exception: A player may not obtain relief under this Local Rule if (a) interference by anything other than such a tree makes the stroke clearly impracticable or (b) interference by such a tree would occur only through use of a clearly unreasonable stroke or an unnecessarily abnormal stance, swing or direction of play.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

3. Course Conditions — Mud, Extreme Wetness, Poor Conditions and Protection of Course

a. Cleaning

Temporary conditions that might interfere with proper playing of the game, including mud and extreme wetness, warranting permission to lift, clean and replace a ball anywhere through the green or on a closely mown area through the green. In such circumstances, the following Local Rule is recommended:

"(Specify area) a ball may be lifted, cleaned and replaced (or substituted for) without penalty.

Note: The location of the ball must be marked before it is lifted under this Local Rule — see Rule 17-1.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

b. "Preferred Lies" and "Winter Rules"

Adverse conditions, including the poor condition of the course or the existence of mud, are sometimes so general, particularly during winter months, that the Committee may decide to grant relief by temporary Local Rule either to protect the course or to promote fair and pleasant play. The Local Rule should be withdrawn as soon as the conditions warrant. In such circumstances, the following Local Rule is recommended:

"A ball lying on a closely mown area through the green (or specify a more restricted area, e.g., at the 6th hole) may be lifted, without penalty, and cleaned. Before lifting the ball, the player must mark its location. Having lifted the ball, he must place it (or a substituted ball) at a point through the green within one club-length of and not nearer the hole than where it originally lay.

A player may place his ball only once, and it is in play when it has been placed. If the ball fails to come to rest on the spot on which it is placed, Rule 17-2b applies. If the ball when placed comes to rest on the spot on which it is placed and it subsequently moves, there is no penalty and the ball must be played as it lies, unless the provisions of any other Rule apply.

If the player fails to mark the location of the ball before lifting it or moves the ball in any other manner, such as rolling it with a club, he incurs a penalty of one stroke.

"Closely mown area" means any area of the course, including paths through the rough, cut to fairway height or less.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

4. Obstructions

a. General

Clarifying status of objects that may be obstructions (Rule 19).

Declaring any construction to be an integral part of the course and, accordingly, not an obstruction, e.g., built-up sides of teeing grounds, putting greens and bunkers (Rule 26-2a).

b. Roads and Paths

Declaring artificial surfaces and sides of roads and paths to be integral parts of the course, or
Providing relief of the type afforded under Rule 19-2 from roads and paths not having artificial surfaces and sides if they could unfairly affect play.

c. Temporary Obstructions

Providing line of play relief from intervention by temporary obstructions (e.g., grandstands, television cables and equipment, etc).

The following Local Rule is recommended for temporary immovable obstructions:

"I. Definition

A temporary immovable obstruction (TIO) is an immovable obstruction that is often erected in conjunction with a competition and is fixed or not readily movable.

Examples of TIOs include, but are not limited to, tents, scoreboards, grandstands, television towers and lavatories.

Supporting guy wires are part of the TIO, unless the Committee declares that they are to be treated as elevated power lines or cables.

II. Interference

Interference by a TIO occurs when any part of the TIO intervenes directly between the player's ball and the hole and is on his line of play and the TIO does not interfere with the lie of the ball or the area of intended stance or swing. (If the TIO does interfere with the lie of the ball or the area of intended swing, see Rule 19-2.)

III. Relief

A player may obtain relief from interference by a TIO as follows:

Through the Green: If the ball lies through the green, the point on the course nearest to where the ball lies must be determined that (i) is not nearer the hole,
avoids interference as defined in Clause II and (iii) is not in a hazard or on a putting green. The player must lift the ball and place it, without penalty, within one club-length of the point so determined on a part of the course that fulfills (i), (ii) and (iii) above.
In a Hazard: If the ball is in a hazard, the player must lift and place the ball either:

Without penalty, in accordance with Clause III(a) above, except that the nearest part of the course affording complete relief must be in the hazard and the ball must be placed in the hazard or, if complete relief is impossible, anywhere within the hazard not nearer the hole; or
Under penalty of one stroke, outside the hazard as follows: the point on the course nearest to where the ball lies must be determined that (a) is not nearer the hole, (b) avoids interference as defined in Clause II and (c) is not in a hazard. The player must place the ball within one club-length of the point so determined on a part of the course that fulfills (a), (b) and (c) above.

Note 1: If the ball lies in a hazard, nothing in this Local Rule precludes the player from proceeding under Rule 22 or 23, if applicable.

Note 2: If a ball to be placed under this Local Rule is not immediately recoverable, another ball may be substituted.

Note 3: A Committee may make a Local Rule (a) permitting or requiring a player to use a placing zone when taking relief from a TIO or (b) permitting a player, as an additional relief option, to place the ball on the opposite side of the TIO from the point established under Clause III, but otherwise in accordance with Clause III.

Exceptions: The player may not obtain relief under Clause III if:

Interference by anything other than the TIO makes it clearly impracticable for him to make a stroke or to make a stroke such that the ball could finish on a direct line to the hole;
Interference by the TIO would occur only through use of a clearly unreasonable stroke or direction of play; or
It would be clearly impracticable to expect the player to be able to strike the ball far enough towards the hole to reach the TIO.

IV. Ball in TIO Not Found

If it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in, on or under a TIO, a ball may be placed in accordance with Rule 19-3b.

V. Placing Zones

If the player has interference as defined in Clause I from a TIO, the Committee may permit or require the use of a placing zone. If the player uses a placing zone in taking relief, he must place the ball in the placing zone nearest to where his ball originally lay or is deemed to lie under Clause IV (even though the nearest placing zone may be nearer the hole).

Note: A Committee may make a Local Rule prohibiting the use of a placing zone that is nearer the hole.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

d. Temporary Power Lines and Cables

When temporary power lines, cables, or telephone lines are installed on the course, the following Local Rule is recommended:

"Temporary power lines, cables, telephone lines and mats covering or stanchions supporting them are obstructions:

If they are readily movable, Rule 19-1 applies.
If they are fixed or not readily movable, the player may, if the ball lies through the green or in a bunker, obtain relief as provided in Rule 19-2. If the ball lies in a water hazard, the player may take standard relief placing the ball in the water hazard or may proceed under Rule 22.
If a ball strikes an elevated power line or cable, the stroke is canceled and the player must play a ball as nearly as possible at the spot from which the original ball was played in accordance with Rule 17-3 (Making Next Stroke from Where Previous Stroke Made).

Note: Guy wires supporting a temporary immovable obstruction are part of the temporary immovable obstruction, unless the Committee, by Local Rule, declares that they are to be treated as elevated power lines or cables.

Exception: A stroke that results in a ball striking an elevated junction section of cable rising from the ground must not be replayed.

Grass-covered cable trenches are ground under repair, even if not marked, and Rule 21-2 applies.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

e. Placing Zones

If the Committee considers that it is not feasible or practicable to proceed in accordance with a Rule providing relief, it may establish placing zones in which balls may or must be placed when taking relief. Generally, such placing zones should be provided as an additional relief option to those available under the Rule itself, rather than being mandatory.

Using the example of a placing zone for a water hazard, when such a placing zone is established, the following Local Rule is recommended:

"If a ball is in or it is known or virtually certain that a ball that has not been found is in the water hazard (specify location), the player may:

proceed under Rule 22; or
as an additional option, place a ball, under penalty of one stroke, in the placing zone.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF LOCAL RULE:
No points earned for that hole."

Note: When using a placing zone the following provisions apply regarding the placing of the ball:

The ball must be placed in the placing zone.
If the placing zone is defined by a line, the line is within the placing zone.
The ball may be placed nearer the hole than a location that could have been reached through a strict application of the relief rule for which the placing zone is established.

Part B - Conditions of the Competition

Rule 26-1 provides, "The Committee must establish the conditions under which a competition is to be played." The conditions should include many matters such as method of entry, eligibility, number of rounds to be played, etc. which it is not appropriate to deal with in the Rules of Golf or this Appendix. Detailed information regarding these conditions is provided in "Decisions on the Rules of Golf" under Rule 26-1 and in "How to Conduct a Competition."

However, there are a number of matters that might be covered in the Conditions of the Competition to which the Committee's attention is specifically drawn. These are:

1. One Ball Condition

The following condition is recommended only for competitions involving expert players:

If it is desired to prohibit changing brands and models of golf balls during a round, the following condition is recommended:

"During a round, the balls a player plays must be of the same brand and model as detailed by a single entry on the current List of Conforming Golf Balls.

Note: If a ball of a different brand and/or model is placed it may be lifted, without penalty, and the player must then proceed by placing a proper ball (Rule 17-4).

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF CONDITION:
No points earned for each hole at which any breach occurred."

2. Caddie (Note to Rule 4-4)

Rule 4-4 permits a player to use a caddie, provided he has only one caddie at any one time. However, there may be circumstances where a Committee may wish to prohibit caddies or restrict a player in his choice of caddie, e.g., professional golfer, sibling, parent, another player in the competition, etc. In such cases, the following wording is recommended:

Use of Caddie Prohibited

"A player is prohibited from using a caddie during the round."

Restriction on Who May Serve as Caddie

"A player is prohibited from having ___________ serve as his caddie during the round.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF CONDITION:
No points earned for any hole at which the player is in breach of this condition. If a breach is discovered between the play of two holes, it is deemed to have been discovered during play of the next hole, and the penalty must be applied accordingly.

3. Pace of Play

The Committee may establish pace of play guidelines to help prevent slow play.

4. Advice in Team Competitions (Note to Rule 6)

If the Committee wishes to act in accordance with the Note under Rule 6, the following wording is recommended:

"In accordance with the Note to Rule 6 of the Rules of Golf, each team may appoint one person (in addition to the persons from whom advice may be asked under that Rule) who may give advice to members of that team. Such person (if it is desired to insert any restriction on who may be nominated insert such restriction here) must be identified to the Committee before giving advice."

5. Transportation

If it is desired to require players to walk in a competition, the following condition is recommended:

"Players must not ride on any form of transportation during a round unless authorized by the Committee.

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF CONDITION:
No points earned for each hole at which any breach occurred.
If a breach is discovered between the play of two holes, it is deemed to have been discovered during play of the next hole, and the penalty must be applied accordingly.

6. Anti-Doping

The Committee may require, in the conditions of competition, that players comply with an anti-doping policy.

7. How to Decide Ties

In both match play and stroke play, a tie can be an acceptable result. However, when it is desired to have a sole winner, the Committee has the authority, under Rule 26-1, to determine how and when a tie is decided. The decision should be published in advance.

The USGA recommends:

Match Play

A match that ends all square should be played off hole by hole until one side wins a hole. The play-off should start on the hole where the match began. In a handicap match, handicap strokes should be allowed as in the round.

Stroke Play

(a) In the event of a tie in a scratch stroke-play competition, a play-off is recommended. The play-off may be over 18 holes or a smaller number of holes as specified by the Committee. If that is not feasible or there is still a tie, a hole-by-hole play-off is recommended.

(b) In the event of a tie in a handicap stroke-play competition, a play-off with handicaps is recommended. The play-off may be over 18 holes or a smaller number of holes as specified by the Committee. It is recommended that any such play-off consist of at least three holes.

(c) If a play-off of any type is not feasible, matching score cards is recommended. The method of matching cards should be announced in advance and should also provide what will happen if this procedure does not produce a winner.

An acceptable method of matching cards is to determine the winner on the basis of the most points earned for the last nine holes. If the tying players have the same number of points for the last nine, determine the winner on the basis of the last six holes, last three holes and finally the 18th hole. If this method is used in a competition with a multiple tee start, it is recommended that the "last nine holes, last six holes, etc." is considered to be holes 10-18, 13-18, etc.

Handicap strokes should be taken as they were assigned for the competition, using the players' respective stroke allocation table(s).

8. Draw for Match Play

Although the draw for match play may be completely blind or certain players may be distributed through different quarters or eighths, the General Numerical Draw is recommended if matches are determined by a qualifying round.

General Numerical Draw

For purposes of determining places in the draw, ties in qualifying rounds other than those for the last qualifying place are decided by the order in which scores are returned, with the first score to be returned receiving the lowest available number, etc. If it is impossible to determine the order in which scores are returned, ties are determined by a blind draw.

Upper Half	Lower Half
64 QUALIFIERS
1 vs. 64	2 vs. 63
32 vs. 33	31 vs. 34
16 vs. 49	15 vs. 50
17 vs. 48	18 vs. 47
8 vs. 57	7 vs. 58
25 vs. 40	26 vs. 39
9 vs. 56	10 vs. 55
24 vs. 41	23 vs. 42
4 vs. 61	3 vs. 62
29 vs. 36	30 vs. 35
13 vs. 52	14 vs. 51
20 vs. 45	19 vs. 46
5 vs. 60	6 vs. 59
28 vs. 37	27 vs. 38
21 vs. 44	22 vs. 43

Upper Half	Lower Half
32 QUALIFIERS
1 vs. 32	2 vs. 31
16 vs. 17	15 vs. 18
8 vs. 25	7 vs. 26
9 vs. 24	10 vs. 23
4 vs. 29	3 vs. 30
13 vs. 20	14 vs. 19
5 vs. 28	6 vs. 27
12 vs. 21	11 vs. 22
16 QUALIFIERS
1 vs. 16	2 vs. 15
8 vs. 9	7 vs. 10
4 vs. 13	3 vs. 14
5 vs. 12	6 vs. 11
8 QUALIFIERS
1 vs. 8	2 vs. 7
4 vs. 5	3 vs. 6

APPENDIX II - Design of Clubs (minor addendum)

Appendices II and III were outside the scope of this project. However, for consistency, the following is added to Appendix II (having been removed from Rule 2 - Clubs):

Inserted as the 2nd sub-section under "I. Clubs"

A club that conforms with the Rules when new is deemed to conform after wear through normal use. Any part of a club that has been purposely altered is regarded as new and must, in its altered state, conform with the Rules.

APPENDIX IV - Devices and Other Equipment

A player in doubt as to whether use of a device or other equipment would constitute a breach of the Rules should consult the USGA.

A manufacturer should submit to the USGA a sample of a device or other equipment to be manufactured for a ruling as to whether its use during a round would cause a player to be in breach of Rule 9-3. The sample becomes the property of the USGA for reference purposes. If a manufacturer fails to submit a sample or, having submitted a sample, fails to await a ruling before manufacturing and/or marketing the device or other equipment, the manufacturer assumes the risk of a ruling that use of the device or other equipment would be contrary to the Rules.

The following paragraphs prescribe general regulations for the design of devices and other equipment, together with specifications and interpretations. They should be read in conjunction with Rule 8-1 (Teeing) and Rule 9-3 (Artificial Devices, Unusual Equipment and Unusual Use of Equipment).

1. Tees (Rule 8)

A tee is a device designed to raise the ball off the ground. A tee must not:

be longer than 4 inches (101.6 mm);
be designed or manufactured in such a way that it could indicate line of play;
unduly influence the movement of the ball; or
otherwise assist the player in making a stroke or in his play.

2. Gloves (Rule 9-3)

Gloves may be worn to assist the player in gripping the club, provided they are plain.

A "plain" glove must:

consist of a fitted covering of the hand with a separate sheath or opening for each digit (fingers and thumb); and
be made of smooth materials on the full palm and gripping surface of the digits.

A "plain" glove must not incorporate:

material on the gripping surface or inside of the glove, the primary purpose of which is to provide padding or which has the effect of providing padding. Padding is defined as an area of glove material which is more than 0.025 inches (0.635 mm) thicker than the adjacent areas of the glove without the added material;
Note: Material may be added for wear resistance, moisture absorption or other functional purposes, provided it does not exceed the definition of padding (see above).
straps to assist in preventing the club from slipping or to attach the hand to the club;
any means of binding digits together;
material on the glove that adheres to material on the grip;
features, other than visual aids, designed to assist the player in placing his hands in a consistent and/or specific position on the grip;
weight to assist the player in making a stroke;
any feature that might restrict the movement of a joint; or
any other feature that might assist the player in making a stroke or in his play.

3. Shoes (Rule 9-3)

Shoes that assist the player in obtaining a firm stance may be worn. Subject to the conditions of competition, features such as spikes on the sole are permitted, but shoes must not incorporate features:

designed to assist the player in taking his stance and/or building a stance;
designed to assist the player with his alignment; or
that might otherwise assist the player in making a stroke or in his play.

4. Clothing (Rule 9-3)

Articles of clothing must not incorporate features:

designed to assist the player with his alignment; or
that might otherwise assist the player in making a stroke or in his play.

Simple Golf Rules

Code Two

December 17, 2012 Revised: August 04, 2013

David Hayes - John Morrissett

Contents

Section

December 17, 2012
Revised: August 04, 2013