Here are six putting green rules that can save your scorecard.
We would recommend you watch the video for the best explanation of golf’s putting green rules, but if you would prefer to read the article, just keep on scrolling…
What are the six putting green rules you should all know?
Rules of golf putting green: When is the ball on the putting green?
According to Rule 13.1a your ball is classed as being on the putting green when any part of the golf ball is on the putting surface. This means even if the majority of your golf ball is off the green it is still treated as being on the putting surface.
Even if your ball lies on a loose impediment or obstruction such as a leaf, so it isn’t actually touching the putting surface, it’s classed as being on the green, as long as part of the ball is inside the edge of the putting green.
Rules of golf putting green: What can you use to mark your golf ball?
Once your ball is on the green you are entitled to mark it, so you can lift, clean and then replace it. This is very helpful if your ball picks up dirt or if you want to line up your golf ball.
You must mark your ball before lifting, or you would receive a one-shot penalty stroke, but you don’t need a dedicated ball marker to do this.
You can use anything artificial to mark your ball such as a tee peg, a coin or another small piece of equipment. You can even use your putter head if you don’t have anything else to hand.
Rules of golf putting green: What improvements are allowed on the green?
The green is one of the only places on the course you can make improvements or repair damage to the surface before you hit your golf shot.
You can repair spike marks, pitch marks, indentations and old hole plugs. Interestingly you can repair pitch marks whether they are yours or someone else’s.
This can save you shots if any of the damage touches the line of your putt as you can repair the surface and make your next shot that little bit easier.
Advertisement
Rules of golf putting green: Can you move loose impediments when your ball is on the fringe?
When you are on the putting green you can remove loose impediments such as leaves or twigs. You can also move loose soil and sand using your hands or even your club head.
However, if your ball and the loose sand are off the green you can’t remove this. You simply have to putt over it or play around it.
The only exception to this rule is if an outside influence adds sand to your lie after the ball has come to rest. For example, if your playing partner hit a bunker shot which proceeded to add sand to your lie.
Rules of golf putting green: Can you repair a pitch mark when you are not on the green?
Your ball also doesn’t have to be on the green in order for you to repair a pitch mark or spike mark. You can make improvements to the putting green no matter whether the ball is on or off the putting green.
What happens when a ball marker moves?
What happens if your ball or ball marker accidentally gets moved on the green? As long as the movement is accidental there is no penalty and the ball or ball-marker must be replaced on the original spot.
Now have your say
What do you think of these putting green rules? Have you learned anything new? Let us know by leaving a comment on X.
