What are Local Rules, and why do they exist?

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We all know that golf, like other sports, has a set of Rules that govern play. But have you ever heard the term “local rule” and wondered what it means?

There are 25 Rules laid out in the current Rules of Golf — but that’s not the end of the story. There are another 90 or so “Model Local Rules” authorized for use as needed, usually depending on the golf course layout, current conditions, maintenance practices or other factors particular to the course or a competition.

A Model Local Rule, explained.

USGA

The decision about whether to implement any Local Rules is made by the “Committee,” which is the person or group in charge of a particular competition or course. In the context of casual, everyday play, this person or group varies by course but often includes the golf professional and/or superintendent. The Local Rules in use at a course can be communicated in different ways but are often found on the scorecard or posted somewhere in the clubhouse.

Have you ever hit your ball into the water on a par 3 and then dropped another ball into a dropping zone? The concept of a dropping zone is a Local Rule (specifically, Model Local Rule E-1).

Have you ever showed up to a golf course and been told that “preferred lies” is in effect for the day? This is Model Local Rule E-3, commonly used when fairway conditions might affect fair play (e.g., due to difficult weather conditions).

Some other notable Local Rules include the alternative to stroke and distance for golf balls that are lost or out of bounds, relief from sod seams and relief from immovable obstructions (like sprinkler heads) close to putting greens.

Interested in looking through all the Model Local Rules? They can be found within the Official Guide to the Rules of Golf, which you can access for free in the USGA Rules of Golf mobile app or at usga.org/rules.