Golf is far beyond a mere sport; it is a social activity with rich cultural traditions, etiquette, and discipline. Learning the well-observed golf course etiquette that guarantees a pleasant and pleasurable game for all players is just as important as showing your golfing skills as you move around the golf course. Following the right golf course etiquette goes a long way in showing your respect for the golf course, other players, and the game itself. Remember, these are courtesies toward your fellow golfers and the game.
Our guide outlines 19 essential golf course etiquette tips for conducting yourself on the golf course. We will guide you on where to place yourself on the tee and the green, how to keep the play moving at a reasonable speed, and how to make sure other players have fun. We'll also cover everything from teeing off to putting and even proper golf cart usage.
Let’s get into them!
- Get there early: Golf begins before you set foot on the golf course. Depending on your practice schedule and whether you want to enjoy refreshments, try to come at least half an hour before the game. This includes checking in at the pro shop, changing into golf shoes, dropping off your clubs, and, if you'd like, scheduling time to hit range balls.
To register with the starter, arrive at the first tee at least ten minutes before your scheduled tee time. Arriving late throws off not only your game but also your group's flow.
- Dress to impress: Proper dressing is a huge part of golf course etiquette. Most golf courses have a dress code that reflects a sense of respect for the game and its norms. This typically involves collared shirts, tailored shorts or pants, and proper golf shoes. Familiarize yourself with the dress code before you walk on a golf course to avoid any awkward situations.
- Positioning yourself: Where to stand on the tee box can be confusing. Generally, avoid standing in front of the player hitting, as this obstructs their line of sight. Standing directly across from the player or behind them (unless they're teeing off into the sun) is typically frowned upon. Additionally, refrain from moving or talking while a player swings.
While not universally bothersome, sitting in your golf cart while others tee off can be seen as rude. Instead, observe and offer encouragement to your fellow golfers.
- Play ‘Ready Golf’ carefully: "Ready Golf" is a popular term for casual golf, where players can hit out of order as long as it doesn't hinder other players. The person who is furthest from the hole usually hits first; however, this can make the game go slower. Proceed if you're prepared to hit. When a member of your group completes the preceding hole with a birdie or eagle, there is an exception made on the tee box. When this happens, it's traditional to say, "Birdie goes first," even if the player isn't ready.
- Mark your ball: Although you don't always need to mark your ball on the green, you should do so if it gets in the way of another golfer's putter when they are approaching or beyond the hole. If another golfer’s ball touches yours, it's a penalty, and your ball could be a distraction. The right way is to put a coin or special ball marker right behind your ball and then lift it.
When putting, take the marking off and replace your ball in the identical area. When other players put, pay attention to where you are on the green to make sure you don't block their view.
- Avoid unnecessary shots: Refrain from treating the course as a driving range. A bad shot doesn't mean you must hit another ball, as long as it's playable or within bounds. Multiple ball searches slow down everyone, and finding two unnecessary balls is frustrating.
- Leave your mark positively: Divots are those ugly bits of turf that your swing kicked up, and you can fix them. To keep the golf course in perfect shape for other players, use a divot repair tool, which is typically supplied by the management crew of the golf course.
You can also fix divots by replacing the turf or filling them with the provided sand (specific instructions may vary by golf course). Similarly, use a tee or ball mark repair tool to fix pitch marks made on the green with your approach shot.
- Rake after yourself: Trying your luck from the bunker? Avoid leaving your imprint in the sand! To create an even playing field for the golfer who comes up next in the bunker challenge, use a rake to smooth up the area.
- Maintain your pace: Golf course etiquette is all about respect and consideration for others. Avoid slowing the game's speed and try to keep up with your group. Try to perform just one or two practice swings, and be prepared when it's your turn to hit.
While others are hitting, you can take notes on yardages, putt breaks, and wind conditions. If you feel like you're falling behind, allow the group after you to finish to keep the game flowing smoothly.
- Cupping the flagstick: The flagstick might be left in the cup during a putt. According to current golf rules, removing the flagstick is up to the person playing the shot. If you decide to take it out, place it flat on the green so that it doesn't hinder anyone's shot. After everyone has finished on the green, the player who makes a putt first usually places the flagstick back in the cup.
- Minding Putting Lines: Even though most modern golf shoes are spikeless, it's still polite to stay off of your golf buddies' putting lines, which are the paths that balls take to the hole. The putt's trajectory may be changed by these indentations. In the same way, stay away from "through-lines," which are possible routes a player's ball could go if a putt goes past the hole.
- Silence Is Appreciated: When other players are getting ready to make their shot, try to avoid conversation. A minor sound can disrupt someone's focus and possibly mess up their swing.
- Be Mindful of Your Environment: Constantly be mindful of where your fellow players are. Golf course etiquette forbids strolling in another person's putt line. Instead, wait patiently for them to finish before removing your ball.
- Note Scores on the Next Green: Do not enter scores on the green where you just played. It is important that you quickly clear this area so that the next group can perform their approach shots. There is plenty of time on the next tee box to keep score.
- Avoid Hitting Into the Group Ahead: Be patient and courteous, and wait for the group in front of you to clear if you think you can make it to the green or come close with a nice shot. The same holds while teeing off; make sure the group ahead is well out of reach before striking. Unexpected sounds may be disrespectful as well as distracting.
- Choosing to Give Up on a Hole: Unless you are playing in a match where every stroke counts, it is perfectly OK to give up on a difficult hole. A score of 12 won't significantly impact your handicap in comparison to a 7 or 8. To keep the momentum going, pick up your ball and move on to the next hole.
- Using a Golf Cart: Golf cart navigation can be confusing. Par-3 holes usually have specific rules, and there are designated areas (usually within 50 yards of the green) where carts are not permitted on the golf course. Many courses have a "90-degree rule" that they follow when playing on fairways. This means that you should not drive over to your ball or your playing partner's ball until you are even with it on the cart route. This lessens the chances of damaging the golf course. 1Furthermore, make sure to be cautious while parking near someone who is playing because a sudden noise could distract them.
- Music On The Golf Course: Playing music on the golf course has become increasingly common, providing an element of relaxation for some players. The golden rules are to ask your group before playing any music and to make sure to keep the volume low so that it doesn’t distract other groups of golfers.
- Cell Phones On The Golf Course: Cell phones are becoming more common on the golf course, thanks to apps that allow you to maintain scores and navigate. Make sure to turn off the dial tone and limit the number of calls you receive. In certain cases, golf course etiquette may include no cell phones, so make sure you go through the rules.
We would recommend that while on the golf course, you take some time to detach from the outside world and establish new relationships with other players and the environment. It is preferable to take urgent calls off the golf course.
Conclusion
“In golf, the customs and etiquette and decorum are as important as the rules of play.”
— Bobby Jones.
This quote by the legend signifies the importance of golf course etiquette. This includes everything from displaying proper manners, respecting fellow players, and upholding the traditions of the game.
Together these factors contribute significantly to the overall experience and integrity of golf. One might be very skilled, but if they are not mindful of the golf course and fellow golfers, they have yet to learn. Following our golf course etiquette tips will equip you to enter the golf course and respectfully dominate the game!
Happy Golfing!