The new rules of golf since 2019

From 01 January 2019, the rules of golf revised by the R&A and the USGA apply. Easier to understand, fairer, more timely and, above all, faster it should become - while maintaining the character. The current 34 Rules of Golf will become just 24.

"Many things make the application of the Rules of Golf more logical and contemporary. A particular focus is on speeding up the game. A round of golf, whether over 18 or nine holes, should be able to be played quickly and thus, in particular, fit better into the daily routine of the many hundreds of thousands of recreational golfers." (Alexander Klose, Director of Law & Regulations at the DGV) Want a sneak preview? We have summarized a short overview of the most important changes in 5 areas for you:

Course ofplay
Players are encouraged to take no longer than 40 seconds to execute their shot. It is also allowed to play out of sequence in the course of "Ready Golf" if it is without danger. In the new form of counting game "Highest score", the game management can set a maximum number of strokes for each hole, after which can be taken up and the next hole played.

Ball search
The search time of a ball is reduced from 5 to 3 minutes before it is considered lost. During the search, accidental movement of the ball will go unpunished. It must be returned to its original location.

Penalty Areas
"Penalty Areas" replace the classic water hazards. They can also include areas of the course that are not filled with water - e.g. ravines, deserts or forest. Players will be given the same options for relief as provided in the current rules for yellow or red designated areas. In Penalty Areas, loose obstructing natural materials may be touched and removed. The act of dropping must no longer be done from shoulder height, but from knee height.

Green
The penalty of 2 penalty strokes for hitting the flagstick when putting from the green is eliminated. Accidental movement of the ball or ball marker on the green remains without penalty - regardless of where this occurs. In addition to pitch marks, spike marks, footprints, club, flagstick or animal damage may be touched up.

Bunker
Loose obstructive natural materials may also be removed in the bunker. For this purpose, it is also allowed to touch the sand with the club or hand. In addition, the ball may be dropped outside the bunker - in direct extension of the flag and original location of the ball - if it is declared unplayable.

The rulebook is available in two editions - a player's edition, which lists and explains all the rules you need to know as a player, and a more comprehensive, complete edition for all rules enthusiasts and fairway policemen. You can get these now in all Golf House stores!