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Golf Rules

Learn the Basic Golf Rules
and Golf Etiquette

The Golf Rules are under the responsibility of the USGA (United States Golf Association) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland (R&A). These two organizations jointly write, interpret, refine and govern the rules. The rules are in place for every golfer at every level on every golf course to abide by. Golf is played in more than 60 nations and is one of the few sports where all players play with the same governing rules. These rules are updated every year.

The USGA publishes a Rules of Golf booklet that can easily be carried in your golf bag and handily used on the course if necessary. However, these rules as they are read, are not always that straightforward to the average golfer. Even the professionals in golf can get caught up in misunderstandings or lack of knowledge regarding the Rules of Golf. At every Professional Golf Tournament there are always Rule Officials who know the rules inside and outside, whom can be, and are, called upon for interpretation and direction during play.

The following are some of the most common golf rules you should be familiar with when playing the sport. Also mixed in are some rules of conduct in regard to Golf Etiquette. Every golfer should be familiar with these rules also. They are important for taking care of the golf course, golf equipment, your golf playing partners and other people who maybe involved in your round. Knowing how to conduct yourself in certain predictable and unpredictable situations will make the round of golf more enjoyable and safe for all involved. The Golf Etiquette rules of conduct are listed below in the color brown.


Basic Golf Rules

Take Care of the Tee, Fairway, Bunker and Green

Areas on the golf course that will require your continual care throughout the round are the tee, fairway, bunker and putting green.
  • It is proper golf etiquette to be in the habit of replacing divots with ground or sand on the tee and in the fairway.
  • After hitting out of a bunker you should use the rake and to make the sand in the bunker smooth.
  • On the putting green repairing ball marks is critical to keeping the greens in tiptop shape.
  • Being cautious not to drag your feet when walking on the putting green, and being extra careful when near the hole, will keep the green's surface smooth.
No one wants to hit a stroke from an undesirable lie due to someone else's golf course neglect.





Phil Mickelson
Phil Mickelson

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For an exact listing and interpretation of The Rules of Golf please refer to the current USGA Rules of Golf booklet or consult with your local golf professional. Return from Golf Rules to Home Page



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Rule XII: When a Balls Lies in or Touches a Hazard, Nothing Shall be Done to Improve Its Lie
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