Local Rule 14 Explanation

Explanation

Local Rules may be established to define Ground Under Repair when they are not all individually marked on the course. Animal damage is one category.

This Local Rule identifies the animals that can cause the damage and where it can be.  By defining 'inconsiderate prior golfers' as one of the kinds of  'animals' who cause damage to the course, our Local Rule 14 is compliant with the Rules of Golf. 

Relief is normally one club length from the point the ball is sitting, not closer to the hole. When this applies to areas in bunkers, the relief area is restricted to the bunker. 

Scenario 1 - Bunker

In the event your ball is in an unrepaired area in the bunker, first apply some course upkeep and use a rake to smooth the areas that are not your stance, nor near the back or front of the ball, nor in the intended direction of travel. Then decide to take relief under the Local Rule 14 and drop the ball into that raked area.

Note that course upkeep in a bunker, prior to your shot, is permitted under the Rules of Golf, provided it does not affect the positions of your stance, near the back or front of the ball or the intended direction of travel. 

Scenario 2 - Fairway (Including any part of the course cut to fairway length).

Unrepaired divots on the Fairway are considered to be Ground Under Repair.

Note: this does not allow a drop if your ball is in an area where a divot has been properly repaired.