What happens if your ball moves while measuring relief?

The situation

You're taking free relief from a cart path, measuring one club length from the nearest point of complete relief, and in the process your club accidentally touches the ball and it rolls away.

The rule

Under Rule 9.4a, there is no penalty if a player or caddie accidentally moves the ball while measuring or taking relief. This is one of several protected actions where the rules recognize that accidental movement is likely to happen and should not be penalised. Replace the ball in its original position (or your best estimate) and continue with the relief process.

Real example

You're taking relief from a sprinkler head. You lay your driver on the ground to measure the drop zone and the grip end nudges your ball an inch. No penalty — just put the ball back where it was and carry on measuring.

What to do on the course

• Replace the ball in the original position and continue measuring
• No penalty stroke added
• Other protected actions with no penalty for accidental movement include: removing a loose impediment, marking and lifting the ball, and removing an obstruction
• Only the final drop into the relief area counts — everything before that is protected

Penalty

No penalty. Replace the ball and continue taking relief.