Relief Under the Rules of Golf Explained

DURING THE WINTER SEASON, when days are shortened and the golf courses may be playing a bit softer or damp, it’s common for a golf ball to become embedded. This can lead to varying circumstances where you may or may not be granted free relief. Let’s learn more about this situation.

Definition

A ball is “embedded” when a player’s ball is in its own pitch-mark made as a result of the player’s previous stroke and where part of the ball is below the level of the ground (see main diagram). A ball does not necessarily have to touch soil to be embedded (for example, grass and loose impediments may be between the ball and the soil).

If it is determined that your golf ball is embedded, you are permitted to take free relief, as referenced by the diagram below. The reference point is the spot right behind where the ball is embedded, and then the player is entitled to a one-club-length relief area no nearer to the hole that is in the general area. A ball dropped in the relief area must come to rest in the relief area.

Quick Facts

● Rule 16.3 is the guiding rule involving a ball being embedded.

● Relief is only available under this Rule if the ball is embedded in the general area (except if it is embedded in sand in the general area).

● No relief for a ball embedded in a bunker.

● No relief for a ball embedded in a penalty area.

● A ball is not embedded if it is below the level of the ground as a result of anything other than the player’s previous stroke, such as when:

• The ball is pushed into the ground by someone stepping on it.

• The ball is driven straight into the ground without becoming airborne.

• The ball was dropped in taking relief under a Rule.

Hopefully this helps in determining if (1) your ball in play is embedded and (2) if you are entitled to free relief.

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