The rare cases people argue about
Rare situations, and the ones people argue about.
A · Advanced · 9 rules · Step 3 of 4Scoring and forms of play
The ball in play
Free relief and dropping the ball
- When do you get a free drop in golf?Four things give free relief: ground under repair, temporary water, animal holes and immovable obstructions such as paths and sprinkler heads.
- Do you get relief for a plugged ball in golf?An embedded ball is one lying in its own pitch-mark, made by the last stroke, with part of it below ground level.
- What is the penalty for playing from the wrong place in golf?After starting a hole, every stroke must be made from where the ball lies or from where a Rule says to play.
Players, equipment and conduct
- Is there a time limit for a shot in golf?A player must start at the exact time set and play without unreasonable delay.
- What happens when play is suspended in golf?A player may not stop play unless the Committee suspends it, the players in a match agree to stop or the player reasonably believes there is danger from lightning.
- What is the etiquette of golf, and is it in the Rules?Players are expected to act with integrity, show consideration for others and take care of the course.
- Who decides a rules question in golf?A referee is an official named by the Committee to decide questions of fact and apply the Rules, and a referee's ruling must be followed.