USGA Rules

Unplayable Ball
in the General Area

• 1. Stroke and distance (+1)

• 2. Back on the line (+1)

• 3. Lateral relief (+1)

• 4. Free drop from the nearest point of relief (+1)

Unplayable Ball in the Bunker

• 1. Stroke and distance (+1)

• 2. Back on the line - in the bunker (+1)

• 3. Lateral Relief (+1)

• 4. Back on the line - out of the bunker

Provisional Ball

• Player must announce that they are 'playing a provisional ball.'

• A provisional ball can be played without any announcement.

• A provisional ball is only used when the original ball is in a penalty area.

• A provisional ball must be played from the original ball's location.

Embedded Ball

• Free relief within one club length from the point right behind where the ball is embedded.

• Free relief within two club lengths from the point right behind where the ball is embedded.

• No relief is allowed for an embedded ball.

• Relief is allowed only if the ball is in a hazard.

Lost Ball

• Player has 3 minutes to search for a lost ball.

• Player may play a provisional before searching.

• If the ball is not found in 3 minute time limit, the player must return to the last spot and take a stroke and distance penalty.

• The player can continue playing without penalty if the ball is lost.

Abnormal Course Conditions (General Area)

• Find the nearest point of complete relief and drop within 1-club length from relief point.

• Drop the ball at the last point of play.

• Take a penalty stroke and continue from the original spot.

• Move to the nearest tee box and play from there.

Moveable Obstruction

• Move the obstruction and play on - No Penalty

• Leave the obstruction and take a penalty

• Move the obstruction but incur a stroke penalty

• Play the ball as it lies without moving the obstruction

Yellow Stakes

• 1. Play the ball as it lies

• 2. Stroke and Distance (+1)

• 3. Back on the line (+1)

• 4. Drop a new ball in the nearest fairway

Abnormal Course Conditions

• Animal holes, Ground under repair, immovable obstructions, temporary water.

• Weather conditions affecting play.

• Player misconduct on the course.

• Equipment malfunction during a game.

Red Stakes

• 1. Play it as it lies.

• 2. Stroke and distance (+1)

• 3. Back on the line (+1)

• 4. Lateral Relief (+1)