What do I do if tee markers are missing?

If tee markers are missing, don't guess — find the Committee to confirm the teeing area. You play from where the markers should be, and there's no penalty unless you moved them yourself to gain an advantage.

What the rule says

The Committee sets tee-marker positions to define each teeing area, and those positions stay fixed for every player. If you find one or both markers missing, Rule 6.2b(4) says you should seek help from the Committee before playing. The teeing area doesn't vanish just because the markers did — it's still defined by where the Committee placed them.

If you moved them

Moving a tee-marker before your stroke and improving the conditions affecting the stroke earns you the general penalty (two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play) under Rule 8.1a(1). That includes picking one up to get a better angle, shifting it to avoid a divot, or anything that makes your shot easier. The penalty applies even if you put it back afterward.

Practical steps on the tee

First, look around — sometimes markers get knocked over and lie in the grass nearby. If they're truly gone, ask your playing partners if anyone saw where they were. Then find a Committee member or the pro shop. While waiting, you can tee up anywhere within the area where the markers should be, but don't hit until the Committee confirms the spot. If the round is casual with no Committee, agree with your group on the most likely position and play on.

Exceptions that change the answer

• You cause a tee-marker to move without improving conditions — tripping over it, hitting it in frustration, or lifting it for no reason → No penalty, but you should replace it. The Committee may still disqualify you if you deliberately destroy it or move it to a different position.

Frequently asked questions

What if both tee markers are missing?

Same procedure — find the Committee. The teeing area is still defined by where the Committee placed the markers, not by where you think they should be.

Can I just estimate where the teeing area is and play?

You can tee up in the estimated area while waiting, but don't make a stroke until the Committee confirms the correct position. Playing from the wrong spot could mean a penalty.

What if I accidentally kick a tee marker?

No penalty if it didn't improve your conditions — say you tripped over it or knocked it in anger. Replace it if you can, but you're not penalized for the accidental move.

What's the penalty for moving a tee marker to get a better angle?

General penalty — two strokes in stroke play, loss of hole in match play — for improving conditions affecting the stroke under Rule 8.1a(1).

Do I have to wait for the Committee before teeing off?

Yes, if a Committee is available. In casual play with no officials, agree with your group on the most likely marker position and play from there.