Rules desk · Pillar 03
Golf rules, without the folklore.
Practical explanations sourced to the USGA and The R&A, with the decision points, penalties, and local-rule exceptions golfers need on the course.
Field notes
Build the model before the opinion.
01
Rules Explanation
02Nine everyday tournament rules situations
Ground under repair, tree roots, bunker rakes and freshly punched fairways: when to drop, replace the ball or play it as it lies.
Rules Explanation
03Cart path, utility box or concrete wall? When golf gives free relief
How to classify common artificial objects, identify real interference, and take the correct free relief without confusing boundary or integral objects.
Rules Explanation
04Red vs yellow penalty areas: what changes?
How each color changes your relief options, where to measure from, and the mistakes that turn one penalty stroke into a bigger problem.
Rules Explanation
Lost ball or penalty area? How to make the call
How the three-minute search and the 95% evidence standard determine whether Rule 17 or Rule 18 controls your next shot.