It’s 2019 and that means the new golf rules are now in effect. The new rules hope to clarify ambiguous language that was part of the old rules. Before you head to the course, here’s a quick preview of some of the new golf rules. A full list of rule changes can also be found here.
Learning the New Golf Rules Before Your Next Round
Repairing Damage
Spike marks and other damage can be repaired on the green without penalty.
Drop-Off Height
Drops can now be taken from knee-length instead of shoulder height.
Staying Grounded
There is no longer a penalty for grounding your club in a water hazard.
Taking Out Bunker Impediments or Your Golf Ball
Players can remove loose impediments around their ball in a bunker. They can also avoid the bunker by taking a two-stroke penalty.
Pin It
It’s now the players’ option to leave the flagstick in the pin.
Looking for a Lost Ball
Golfers will now have 3 minutes to search for a lost ball.
Caddie Assistance
When a player takes their stance, the caddie cannot stand behind them to help with the alignment. That now results in a penalty.
The Double-Chip
Golfers will no longer be charged a penalty for a double chip. It will just count as one stroke.
The Putting Line
Touching the putting line is no longer a penalty. Caddies, however, cannot stand behind or be an extension of the putting line.
Accidents On The Green
There isn’t a penalty if the ball or ball-marker is accidentally moved. The same rule applies to a lost ball.
These rule changes are to help with the pace of the game, as well as to modernize golf. Some rules haven’t changed, however, most notably the “play the ball as it lies” rule. This rule has remained the same to keep some of golf’s traditions.