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Understanding no-play zones can save you strokes and prevent accidental rule breaches on the course. In this short video from Girlfriends Guide to Golf, the rules around no-play zones are broken down clearly — covering both penalty areas and abnormal course conditions. Whether you’re new to the rules or just need a refresher, this is a handy guide to have in your back pocket.
Girlfriends Guide to Golf – Know The Rules
No-play zones can appear on any course and knowing how to handle them correctly is essential for avoiding unnecessary penalties. This video from Girlfriends Guide to Golf walks you through the two types of no-play zones you’re likely to encounter and what your relief options are in each case. It’s a concise rules explainer that’s useful for golfers at any level.
Key Takeaways
There are two types of no-play zone
There are two types of no-play zone
A no-play zone must be defined as either part of a penalty area or an abnormal course condition — and the type determines whether you take free relief or pay a penalty stroke.
Penalty area no-play zones cost you a stroke
If your ball is in a no-play zone within a penalty area, you cannot play it as it lies and must take penalty relief using one of the standard options — stroke and distance, back on the line, or lateral relief for red-staked areas.
Abnormal course condition no-play zones give you free relief
If the no-play zone is defined as an abnormal course condition — such as a newly planted flower bed or young trees — you are entitled to free relief and must not play the ball as it lies.
Next time you spot a stake with a green tip or see a no-play zone noted on your scorecard, you’ll know exactly what type it is and which relief option applies. This video is ideal for golfers who want to feel more confident navigating the rules on the course without getting caught out.
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