What counts as a side in four-ball or foursomes?

When your ball is in a bunker, specific relief rules apply for abnormal course conditions, dangerous animals, and unplayable balls. Putting greens have their own rule because they are specially prepared with a flagstick.

Relief for a ball in a bunker

Rule 12.3 covers three situations where you get specific relief while your ball is in a bunker. If an abnormal course condition interferes, you follow Rule 16.1c. If a dangerous animal is involved, Rule 16.2 applies. And if you declare the ball unplayable, you use Rule 19.3. Each of these rules gives you options that are specific to bunkers, different from relief elsewhere on the course.

Putting greens have their own rule

Rule 13 exists because putting greens are specially prepared for rolling the ball along the ground and each has a flagstick for the hole. Because of this, certain rules apply on the green that do not apply in the general area, bunkers, or penalty areas. The rule covers things like marking and lifting your ball, repairing damage, and the flagstick.

Frequently asked questions

What relief do I get for an abnormal course condition in a bunker?

You follow Rule 16.1c, which gives you specific relief options when your ball is in a bunker and an abnormal course condition interferes.

What if a dangerous animal is near my ball in a bunker?

Rule 16.2 applies and gives you relief from the dangerous animal condition while your ball is in the bunker.

Can I take unplayable ball relief in a bunker?

Yes, Rule 19.3 provides specific unplayable ball relief options when your ball is in a bunker.

Why do putting greens have a separate rule?

Putting greens are specially prepared for playing the ball along the ground and have a flagstick, so different rules apply than in other areas of the course.

What does Rule 13 cover on the putting green?

Rule 13 covers marking and lifting your ball, repairing damage on the green, and the flagstick, among other things specific to the putting green.