Augusta National Golf Club is one of the most traditional in the world and, to maintain their image, there are certain rules that are applied.
Throughout Masters week, thousands of patrons come on to the grounds to witness one of the finest weeks in sport, but obeying the laws of Augusta is an absolute must.
Let’s find out the rules of Augusta National Golf Club.
Augusta National Golf Club rules
We’ve created a list of Masters do’s and don’t’s everyone must follow if they ever find themselves inside the hallowed grounds, because if you don’t, you’ll be out the gates – no questions asked – with zero hope of readmittance…
August rule 1: No electronic devices
Probably the most important – and notable – of the Masters rules.
During tournament days, patrons, players, caddies and, well, everyone risks being thrown out of Augusta – and even receiving a ban – for using electronic devices.
This includes cell phones, so attendees must be sure to leave their mobiles at home.
There is some leeway in this rule, though, as on practice days you are allowed to use cameras. We must reiterate, however, that this does not include camera phones. They are still strictly prohibited.
August rule 2: Do not resell tickets within half a mile of Augusta
Ticket reselling is a tricky subject in all areas of entertainment these days, but is particularly frowned upon when it come to the Masters.
Ticket resales are not really in the spirit of the Masters but if you were to sell a ticket then it must be done more than half a mile from the golf club.
Anybody caught selling tickets within this area could find themselves arrested and on the way to a police station.
August rule 3: Do not run
There always seems to be the temptation when following a golf tournament to break into a run to grab the best spot to watch a player’s next shot or get a good view of a green.
But, if seen doing so at the Masters, you would risk being escorted off the property.
So if anyone’s ball flies over your head and lands behind you, consider the consequences before running over to it.
Practice your brisk walk before you go.
August rule 4: Don’t ask players for autographs while they are on the course
It is frowned upon for anybody to request a player’s autograph while they are out on the course.
You may ask for autographs around the practice area and, as always, most players will oblige – particularly on practice days.
In addition, you may ask for autographs when players are on the par-3 course, so this is another option if you’re lucky enough to hold a Wednesday badge.
If you plan on getting anything signed, make your way over to the practice grounds, or attend the Par-3 Contest where you can try your luck.
August rule 5: Don’t bring your own food or drink onto the premises
Augusta’s food and drink prices are incredibly reasonable. For just $1.50 you can tuck into a famous pimento cheese sandwich and add a drink for anywhere between $2 and $5.
There’s really no reason to bring your own food and drink into the grounds and, thanks to security checks at the gates, you won’t be able to anyway.
August rule 6: Don’t overdo it on the alcohol
While beer will be relatively cheap on course, this is not an excuse for patrons to consume large amounts.
Everyone in attendance should be there to enjoy the spectacle and, while there is no issue with enjoying a drink or two, ensure that you don’t overdo it.
If you appear drunk, the staff at Augusta won’t hesitate to remove you from the premises.
August rule 7: Sit only in your own seat
You will notice on the Masters coverage the rows of green collapsible chairs in place around the majority of greens.
These have been put there by patrons and they are able to leave them to return to later on.
This is really an unwritten rule, but as a patron you shouldn’t sit in anybody else’s chair. Should you wish to sit down then buy or bring your own collapsible chair – but make sure it has no armrests.
August rule 8: Only one re-entry per day
With each ticket, patrons may enter the course twice a day, meaning that if you leave once, you are allowed back in with the same ticket. Any more than that and you won’t get back in.
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Alex Perry
