Bunker Relief Options and Putting Green Rules

When your ball is in a bunker, you have specific relief options for abnormal course conditions, dangerous animals, or an unplayable ball. On the putting green, different rules apply because the surface is specially prepared for putting.

Relief for Ball in Bunker

When your ball is in a bunker, three specific relief rules may apply depending on the situation. If an abnormal course condition like temporary water or ground under repair interferes with your stance or swing, you take relief under Rule 16.1c. If a dangerous animal such as a snake or alligator makes the situation unsafe, Rule 16.2 gives you relief. And if you decide the ball is unplayable, Rule 19.3 provides your options, all with specific procedures for dropping in the bunker.

Putting Green Rules

The putting green is a specially prepared area for playing the ball along the ground, and it has a flagstick for the hole. Because of this, certain rules apply differently here than on other parts of the course. You may mark, lift, and clean your ball on the green. You can repair damage like ball marks and old hole plugs. The flagstick can be left in or removed when putting. These special rules recognize the unique nature of the putting surface.

Frequently asked questions

What relief do I get for temporary water in a bunker?

You take free relief under Rule 16.1c by dropping in the bunker at the nearest point of complete relief, or with a one-stroke penalty you can drop outside the bunker on the line back from the hole.

Can I take relief from a dangerous animal in a bunker?

Yes, Rule 16.2 allows free relief when a dangerous animal condition interferes with your stance or swing. You drop in the bunker at the nearest point of complete relief.

What are my options for an unplayable ball in a bunker?

Under Rule 19.3 you have three options: stroke-and-distance relief, back-on-the-line relief in the bunker, or lateral relief in the bunker — each for one penalty stroke. For two penalty strokes you can drop outside the bunker on the line back from the hole.

Can I repair damage on the putting green?

Yes, you may repair damage on the putting green without penalty, including ball marks, shoe damage, and old hole plugs, as long as you don't improve conditions beyond restoring the green.

Do I have to remove the flagstick when putting?

No, you may leave the flagstick in the hole or have it removed — there is no penalty either way if your ball hits the flagstick.