
There is no Rule that covers “winter rules” or “preferred lies” in the Rules of Golf, but there is an explanation in Appendix I, Part A, Local Rules that says: “Adverse conditions, including the poor condition of the course or the existence of mud, are sometimes so general, particularly during winter months, that the Committee may decide to grant relief by temporary Local Rule either to protect the course or to promote fair and pleasant play.
Full Answer
What should be my winter golf practice routine?
Nov 26, 2021 · As the weather gets colder and underfoot conditions are wetter, so most golf clubs will allow players to use winter rules. The idea here is that as balls are likely to either end up in poor, muddy lies or accumulate a lot of mud as they roll out, the adoption of winter rules or preferred lies under a suitably worded temporary Local Rule would allow you to play your next …
How to practice your golf swing in the winter?
Oct 10, 2017 · The Rules of Golf provide the recommended wording for preferred lies. When this Local Rule is in place, the ball may be lifted without penalty and cleaned before placing within a specified distance no closer to the hole. It is worth noting that before you lift the ball you must mark its position. Once having marked its position you must not ...
What is the preferred Lie rule in golf?
At Princes Risborough Golf Club our rules fall in line with the R&A guidelines and are usually in force until the end of March. It will be clearly marked if Winter Rules Apply on the first Tee. Winter rules allow you, in accordance with the Rules of Golf, to lift, clean and place your ball within six inches of where it has come to rest (but only on “closely mown areas”).
What are local rules in golf?
There is no Rule that covers “winter rules” or “preferred lies” in the Rules of Golf, but there is an explanation in Appendix I, Part A, Local Rules that says: “Adverse conditions, including the poor condition of the course or the existence of mud, are sometimes so general, particularly during winter months, that the Committee may decide to grant relief by temporary Local Rule either to …
What is the winter rule in golf?
Can you play on golf courses in the winter?
Can you golf in England in winter?
When can you clean your golf ball?
Why is golf so hard in winter?
Is it harder to golf in the cold?
Can you play golf in December?
What months can you play golf?
What temperature is too cold for golf clubs?
Can you pick up a golf ball on the green?
Can you mark your ball before everyone is on the green?
Why do golfers say mud ball?
Local Rules and Bad Course Conditions
In locations where winter weather can be harsh, with negative effects on golf courses, some courses will post a sign stating "winter rules in effect today," or "preferred lies today." This means, in the simplest explanation, that golfers may improve their lies by moving their golf balls in certain rough areas of the course, and those areas are usually limited to the fairway ..
The Old Rule in 2004
Here's the most important thing we can tell you about winter rules, and it's something that most golfers don't know: Winter rules were not codified under any of the regular thirty-four Rules of Golf; instead, they were a local rule that had to be enacted before being in effect, just like the "one ball" condition.
The Evolution of Winter Rules
Prior to 2004, the Appendix contained the strong admonition that the USGA and the R&A did not endorse "preferred lies" and "winter rules;" that such rules contravened the fundamental principle of playing the ball as it lies; and that the ruling bodies would ignore any requests for assistance in making rulings when "preferred lies" and "winter rules" were involved.
Who Decides the Rules?
Ultimately, the choice comes down to the individual player as It is not mandatory to take advantage of winter rules — or preferred lies — when the local rule is in effect.
What is preferred lie in golf?
When this Local Rule is in place, the ball may be lifted without penalty and cleaned before placing within a specified distance no closer to the hole. It is worth noting that before you lift the ball you must mark its position.
Why is course maintenance important?
Course maintenance is essential to a well-managed course. There will be times of year when the greenkeeping team will need to create aeration holes, perhaps through the green or on the putting greens to ensure their condition is maintained.

Local Rules and Bad Course Conditions
The Old Rule in 2004
- Here's the most important thing we can tell you about winter rules, and it's something that most golfers don't know: Winter rules were not codified under any of the regular thirty-four Rules of Golf; instead, they were a local rule that had to be enacted before being in effect, just like the "one ball" condition. That was until 2015 when the Rules ...
The Evolution of Winter Rules
- Prior to 2004, the Appendix contained the strong admonition that the USGA and the R&A did not endorse "preferred lies" and "winter rules;" that such rules contravened the fundamental principle of playing the ball as it lies; and that the ruling bodies would ignore any requests for assistance in making rulings when "preferred lies" and "winter rules" were involved. These statements have be…
Who Decides The Rules?
- Ultimately, the choice comes down to the individual player as It is not mandatory to take advantage of winter rules — or preferred lies — when the local rule is in effect. Players are entitled to take advantage of the rule if it is in effect, but they are also entitled to play the balls as they lie — if they prefer playing the game in the traditional fashion.