Golf Rules Interpretations
Understanding complex golf rules scenarios and their proper interpretations according to the Rules of Golf.
Common Rules Scenarios
Ball Moved by Wind After Address
Rule 9.3If your ball moves after you've addressed it but before you make your stroke, and it's moved by wind, there's no penalty. Replace the ball to its original position.
Unplayable Ball in Water Hazard
Rule 19.1You cannot take an unplayable ball relief if your ball is in a penalty area (water hazard). You must use penalty area relief options instead.
Ball Hits Flagstick When Putting
Rule 13.2aSince 2019, there's no penalty if your ball hits the flagstick when putting from on the green, whether the flag is attended or unattended.
Improving Lie in Bunker
Rule 12.2bYou cannot improve your lie, stance, or swing area in a bunker by moving loose impediments or touching sand with your club before the stroke.
Recent Rule Changes
Model Local Rule for Distance-Measuring Devices
Committees can now allow use of devices that measure distance only, but not other conditions like wind or elevation changes.
Major Rules Modernization
Significant changes including: no penalty for hitting flagstick when putting, dropping from knee height, reduced time for ball search.
Key Resources
Official Rules of Golf
The complete and official Rules of Golf as published by the R&A and USGA.
View Official Rules →Rules Interpretations
Official interpretations and clarifications of complex rules situations.
View Interpretations →Test Your Knowledge
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