GOLF ETIQUETTE

Golf is steeped in tradition, including a set of unspoken rules that collectively make up golf etiquette. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines ensures an enjoyable experience for yourself and fellow golfers on the course.

HAVE FUN

Golf is meant to be a fun and rewarding experience. It's a chance to relish the outdoors, bond with friends, and challenge yourself. While it can be frustrating at times, especially on off days, remember to keep a positive attitude and avoid losing your temper. Take a deep breath if you feel frustrated and focus on enjoying the game.

BE PUNCTUAL FOR TEE TIMES

Respect scheduled tee times to maintain the smooth operation of the golf course. Arriving promptly for your tee time helps keep the pace of play organized and courteous to other golfers.

PLAY "READY GOLF"

Be prepared to play your shot promptly to keep the game moving efficiently. Select your club, assess the distance, and execute your shot without unnecessary delay.

Rather than following the traditional "who's away" rule (where the player furthest from the hole goes first), ready golf encourages players to take their shot as soon as they are ready, ensuring their fellow players are aware. Here are some examples of ready golf:

• Hitting a shot when safe to do so if a player farther away faces a challenging shot and is taking time to assess their options.
• Shorter hitters playing first from the tee or fairway if longer hitters have to wait.
• Hitting a tee shot if the person with the honor is delayed in being ready to play.
• Take appropriate clubs to your ball and hit without delay.
• Hitting a shot before helping someone look for a lost ball.
• Putting out even if it means standing close to someone else’s line.
• Hitting a shot if a player who has just played from a greenside bunker is still farthest from the hole but is delayed due to raking the bunker.
• When a player’s ball has gone over the back of a green, any player closer to the hole should play while the other player walks to their ball and assesses their shot.

RESPECT QUIET ZONES

Maintain silence and avoid distractions while other golfers are teeing off or preparing to putt. Creating a quiet environment supports concentration and allows players to perform their best.

MAINTAIN PACE OF PLAY

While golf is a leisurely sport, maintaining a reasonable pace ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone on the course. Play efficiently, be ready for your turn, and keep up with the group ahead of you.

ALLOW FASTER GROUPS TO PLAY THROUGH

If your group is slower than those behind you, courteously allow faster groups to pass through. Stepping aside ensures continuous play and minimizes frustration.

REPAIR DIVOTS

Replace divots to preserve the course and prevent turf damage. Unrepaired divots can affect playability and the overall condition of the course.

RAKE BUNKERS

Smooth out footprints and disturbances in bunkers using a rake. Leaving bunkers in good condition maintains fairness for all players.

REPAIR BALL MARKS

Restore ball marks on greens using a repair tool to uphold course quality and respect for future golfers.

RECORD SCORES ON THE NEXT TEE BOX

Avoid lingering near the green to record scores. Move promptly to the next tee box to allow the following group to play without delay.

USE MUSIC CONSIDERATELY

If playing music on the course, ensure it's at a volume that doesn't disturb other players. Always check with your group to ensure everyone is comfortable with music on the course.

USE CELL PHONES CONSIDERATELY

Silence your phone and limit usage to essential golf-related functions. Respect course etiquette by minimizing distractions and maintaining focus on the game.

FOLLOW DRESS CODE

Adhere to the course's dress code by wearing appropriate golf attire. Respecting the dress code reflects appreciation for golf traditions and course etiquette.