Having a clean golf ball can make a big difference when trying to execute a great golf shot. A common question received by the Rules Crew is, “When is a player allowed to clean their golf ball?” First, a ball lifted from the putting green may always be cleaned. Then, under Rule 14.1c, a player may clean their ball at almost any time during the round when applying a Rule, with four exceptions. Let’s take a closer look at them!

1: To See If It Is Cut or Cracked

Occasionally, a ball may become cut or cracked as the result of a stroke. Rule 4.2c(1) allows a player to determine if their ball is cut or cracked, but the ball must not be cleaned when checking it. If it is determined that it is cut or cracked, then the player can replace the ball.

2: To Identify It

Rule 7.3 allows a player to lift their ball for identification because it might be lying in a situation that makes it difficult to see if it is their ball. When lifting to identify it, the ball cannot be cleaned except only as needed to identify it.

3: Because It Interferes with Play

Under Rule 15.3b (2), a player is entitled to lift their ball if asked, because it interferes with another player. When this is done, the ball must not be cleaned, which is why you’ll often see players holding the ball with two fingers to show they haven’t cleaned it.

4: To See If It Lies in Condition Where Relief is Allowed

Rule 16.4 applies when a player is trying to determine if their ball lies in a condition where relief is permitted, for example, in an animal hole. If the ball is marked and lifted to check, the ball cannot be cleaned unless it is confirmed that the ball lies in the condition allowing relief. Once it is determined to be in the hole, the ball may be cleaned! If you clean your ball when it is not allowed under these four scenarios, the penalty is one stroke, and the ball must be replaced if it was lifted. Outside of those four specific circumstances, and when on the putting green, clean away whenever you are applying a Rule when taking free or penalty relief! ▪