"Cart path only" is a condition that may be in effect at a golf course, and when it is it means that golfers using motorized (riding) golf carts must keep those carts on the designated cart paths at all times. Drive the cart on the cart paths only, and nowhere else. No taking the cart out into the fairway on cart-path-only days.
Full Answer
What are the rules for cart path only on golf courses?
Golfers should also be told when they pay and/or when they check in with the starter what the cart rules are for the round. If a course has any holes that are always "cart path only" - par-3 holes are usually cart path only - then in addition to any on-course signage such a rule may also be noted on the scorecard.
When is a golfer entitled to relief from a cart path?
Under the rule of golf 24-2b, a golfer is entitled to free relief from a cart path if the ball comes to rest upon the path or the golfer's swing or stance is inhibited by the path. A golfer's stance is deemed to be inhibited if any part of his foot comes in contact with the path.
Why do golf courses allow carts on the course?
Carts are also an important revenue source for courses throughout the country. Because of the popularity of golf carts, many courses rely heavily on traffic control measures to mitigate the turf damage that comes with cart traffic. Stakes, ropes, directional signs and the occasional cart restriction can sometimes be frustrating.
Are push carts allowed on fairways on golf courses?
At some golf courses yes, at some no. Whether push carts are allowed on fairways when the course is designated "cart path only" is something that differs from course to course. If you're using a push cart, you'll need to ask about this if the course doesn't make it clear either through signage or with verbal instructions.
What is the 90 degree cart rule?
The 90-Degree Rule Under this rule, carts are allowed on the fairway, but they must maintain a 90-degree angle from the cart path. You must take the cart path to a spot that is even with your ball, make a right angle turn and drive straight toward the ball. This rule may be in effect for all or some holes.
What does cart path only mean?
"Cart path only" is a condition that may be in effect at a golf course, and when it is it means that golfers using motorized (riding) golf carts must keep those carts on the designated cart paths at all times. Drive the cart on the cart paths only, and nowhere else.
Do you get free relief from a cart path?
USGA Rules note that a golfer is entitled to free relief from a cart path if the ball comes to rest upon the path or the golfer's swing or stance is inhibited by the path. A golfer's stance is deemed to be inhibited if any part of their foot comes in contact with the path.
Who enforces rules in golf?
Answer. The Rules of Golf are determined and administered by two bodies, (i) The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&A) who govern all territories except for the USA and Mexico and (ii) the United States Golf Association (USGA).
What is cart path golf?
The "cart path" is the designated route around a golf course that golf carts are expected, or in some cases required, to follow. A cart path is usually paved in concrete, but asphalt might be used.
What does scatter mean on the golf course?
If you do notice an area that does have “thin grass” please “scatter” the carts when leaving or returning to the path and limit the traffic in those areas. This will give the grass time to recuperate so that area can be utilized in the future.
What is the rule for taking relief from a cart path?
Under Rule 24-2b Immovable Obstruction – If your ball lies on or near the cart path or when the obstruction interferes with your stance or the area of intended swing you may take free relief – you must determine the nearest point of relief no closer to the hole with in one club length and the ball must be dropped.
Do you have to take full relief from a path?
Remember, it is not simply which side of the path the ball is closest to. Also, you must take full relief from the path i.e. you cannot stand on the path after dropping your ball. You can play your shot from the path if taking relief would place you in a worse position.
What is cart path relief?
Let's say you hit your drive to the right and end up on a cart path. Your nearest point of relief will be the spot on the golf course nearest to where your ball lies is that is not nearer to the hole and that gives you complete relief from the cart path.
What are 2 etiquette rules on the golf course?
10 Rules for Good Golf EtiquetteI. Don't be the slowest player.II. Keep your temper under control.III. Respect other people's time.IV. Repair the ground you play on.V. Be a silent partner.VI. Make your golf cart 'invisible'VII. Always look your best.VIII. Turn off the cell phone.More items...•
What is Rule 5.3 A in Golf?
March 9, 2021. Rule 5.3a states: The player must start at (and not before) his or her starting time: This means that the players must be ready to play at the starting time and starting point set by the Committee.
What is Rule 1.3 A in Golf?
1.3. A ball is out of bounds when it is beyond any fence defining the boundary of the course.
How can golf cart traffic be reduced?
Golfers can help reduce damage from cart traffic by following signage, avoiding stressed areas and taking unique routes when carts are permitted to leave paths. Driving where the grass is greener may seem counterintuitive, but dispersing traffic over a large area will help maintain healthy turf.
Why are golf carts important?
Golf carts have become an integral part of the game; they increase the accessibility of golf courses and provide an additional revenue source for facilities. Given the popularity of golf carts, facilities use a combination of signs, stakes and ropes to control traffic and mitigate any damage. In high-traffic areas, or during periods of extreme moisture, heat or drought, it may also be necessary to restrict carts to paths to avoid widespread turf injury.
How to get carts back on course after rain?
Adding drainage to wet areas or removing trees to increase sunlight and air movement may help get carts back on the course sooner after a rain event, but ultimately the duration of cart restrictions is in the hands of Mother Nature. Cloud cover and high humidity will prolong wet conditions while full sun, ample wind and low humidity will help lift cart restrictions sooner. When carts are restricted due to drought and excessive heat, relief in the form of rain and lower temperatures is necessary before cart restrictions are lifted.
What is the USGA?
The USGA promotes and conserves the true spirit of the game of golf as embodied in its ancient and honorable traditions. It acts in the best interests of the game for the continued enjoyment of those who love and play it.
Can golf carts slide?
Saturated conditions and cart traffic do not go well together. Carts can slide and skid when conditions are wet, causing significant turf damage. Soil compaction is a concern anytime vehicles are driven on turf, but the effects of vehicle traffic are compounded when the ground is saturated. Soft conditions combined with narrow golf cart tires raises an additional concern of tire rutting. Not only does rutting affect the appearance and playability of a golf course, the repair process consumes valuable time and labor that could be devoted to other areas of the golf course.
What does "no carts beyond this point" mean?
This sign is one you might see in a fairway as you close in on the green. Courses don't want golf carts near the putting green; the "no carts beyond this point" sign makes sure golfers get that message. Even if you are allowed to drive the cart on the fairway, be sure to observe these signs. When you see one, stop and return to the designated cart path before proceeding forward again.
What is 90 degree golf?
The "90-degree rule" means that the golf course is allowing carts onto the grass -- but only at 90-degree angles from the cart path. In other words, don't drive the golf cart up the middle of the fairway from the tee box to your golf ball. Stay on the cart path until you are level with your golf ball, then make a 90-degree turn off the cart path and drive straight across to the ball.
How to be courteous when putting a golf cart in reverse?
Along the same lines, many golf carts beep when they are in reverse. So if you need to put the cart in reverse, be aware of any golfers close to you and whether they are about to begin a stroke.
What is the 90 degree rule for golf carts?
The " 90-degree rule " means that the golf course is allowing carts onto the grass -- but only at 90-degree angles from the cart path.
Why do golf carts have to be on the cart path?
16 today." In this situation, the course's regular golf cart rules apply (remember, ask when checking in), but on the specified holes you are required to keep the cart on the designed cart path. The reason is usually moisture on the specified holes -- they may be too wet for carts -- or ground under repairon the specified holes.
What are the rules for driving a golf cart?
We'll go over the variations of golf cart rules you might see posted at your local golf courses, but first, here are a couple reminders of things you should never do in a golf cart: 1 Never drive the cart within hazard boundary lines, or within about 10 yards of water hazards or bunkers, or within about 50 yards of greens (unless you're on a designated cart path, of course). These areas are especially susceptible to damage by the wheels of golf carts. Never drive onto or close to tee boxes, either, unless on the cart path. 2 Never drive the cart through mud, on or off the fairway. 3 Never drive through casual water on any part of the golf course (unless it's a little bit of water over a paved cart path). The wheels of the cart can do serious damage to the turf, including leaving ruts, in wet areas. 4 Never go joyriding in the golf cart. In other words, don't act stupid! People do get injured in cart accidents. See golf cart safety for specific suggestions.
What to do when you finish a hole in golf?
When you finish a hole, walk off the green, get into the cart and move on to the next teeing groundbefore marking the scorecard. In this way, you won't hold up any group behind you that is waiting for the green to clear.
Why do golf carts wear?
This leads to many golf carts driving in the same area which creates wear and damage. When grass is saturated it is prone to ruts, damage and excess compaction, which grass can’t recuperate from. This is especially noticed on the Ridge course which only has a few entrance and exit points on certain holes. A clear example of wear is on 4, and 10 Ridge. Other problem areas are funnels that all traffic will naturally use, an example of this is 13 Ridge, where everyone travels up the middle of the fairway. This leads to poor conditions due to compaction.
What is the rule for Predator Ridge?
The most common rule at Predator Ridge is a 90 degree rule . Carts are to proceed on the pathways until the point where the golfers ball is reached. The cart can then depart from the path to go over to the ball. After the shot is played the cart should proceed back to the pathway and travel on the path to the next point where the ball lies, and proceed to the shot in the same manner. Impact on the turf will be minimized by following this procedure.
Do you have to scatter carts in golf?
This will ensure that the golf course will stay in excellent condition year round, because we are not creating problem areas. If you do notice an area that does have “thin grass” please “scatter” the carts when leaving or returning to the path and limit the traffic in those areas. This will give the grass time to recuperate so that area can be utilized in the future.
Is it safe to use a golf cart in wet weather?
Safety is also a concern during wet times. Golf carts are not made for traction and are prone to slippage which could lead to sliding down a hill and an accident. We want golfers to enjoy their round, and play at pace, but not at the cost of safety.
What happens if the ball isn't in effect?
If it isn’t in effect, then you indeed get into the question of whether the player could reasonably make a stroke at the ball as it lies. If not, under Rule 16.1a (3) he doesn’t get free relief just because he’s standing on a cart path — either he has to try to play the ball as it lies or take unplayable relief.
What happens if you stand on the cart path?
If you’re trying to take relief but are still standing on the cart path, you’re playing from the wrong place, per Rule 14.7, and you get the general penalty of two strokes in stroke play and loss of hole in match play.
What is interference in cart path?
For a cart path, under Rule 16.1 (b) interference includes the lie of the ball, the area of stance and swing. Even if only one of those things creates the original interference, you have to take relief from all of them to create the required complete (!) relief.
Is a landscaped area encircled by a cart path treated as being part of the cart path?
This question does take us down two different paths. It’s a common local rule that a landscaped area encircled by a cart path is treated as being part of the cart path.
Where to send questions about the rules?
Got a question about the Rules? Ask the Rules Guy! Send your queries, confusions and comments to rulesguy@golf.com. We promise he won’t throw the book at you.
Is the rules of golf tricky?
The Rules of Golf are tricky! Thankfully, we’ve got the guru. Our Rules Guy knows the book front to back. Got a question ? He’s got all the answers.
What is the rule of golf that a golfer is entitled to free relief from a cart path?
Under the rule of golf 24-2b, a golfer is entitled to free relief from a cart path if the ball comes to rest upon the path or the golfer's swing or stance is inhibited by the path. A golfer's stance is deemed to be inhibited if any part of his foot comes in contact with the path.
What is a cart path?
By Kevin D. Boehler. Cart paths are common on golf courses. While helpful in keeping carts off the grass, they are less helpful if your errant shot comes to rest on or against one of these paths -- unless you know the rules of golf and what options are available.
What is free drop golf?
Free Drop. After deciding that relief from the cart path is desired or necessary, the golfer must find the nearest point of relief that moves the ball no closer to the hole and mark that point with a tee. The golfer is entitled to one club length of relief from that spot, which is usually marked with another tee.
Do you have to take a free drop when golfing?
A golfer does not have to take a free drop when the ball comes to rest on the cart path, although it would be a good idea to avoid injury and damage to the club. If a golfer decides the nearest point of relief would put him in a bad spot to play his next shot, he can play the ball from the cart path. Playing from the cart path is usually done only ...
Can you drop a golf ball from shoulder height?
The golfer must drop the ball from shoulder height at any point in between those two tees as long as the ball is not being dropped in a hazard or onto the green. A golfer may take this relief with no penalty.
How do golf courses make money?
Let’s start with golf first. One of the areas where money comes in is through greens fees and cart rental. The average green fee is $36 for public courses. Where I live it is $60–75. Carts are $18 per person. The next area courses make a small profit in is food and beverage. While a meal price in the dining area is under $10, on the course a single beer is $3. That adds up to $18 for a six pack I can buy at the store for $4.50. There are also private golf lessons, clinics, and tournaments. Other areas include catering, weddings and receptions, special dining events, and business office space rental.
What is a cart path?
Generally they are “walking’ courses; cart paths cost money to build and maintain and “regular” golf courses that allow them (carts) usually have storage facilities for members to leave them. This means more land, more buildings and higher insurance costs.
What to do if your brakes squeak?
If the brakes grab or feel funny take it in immediately, if it’s just squeaking for the first couple times that you apply brakes call the mechanic and let him know, then if it doesn’t pass in a few days he can clean them and put the brake quiet goo on the back of the pads.
How long does it take to play a par 3?
It doesn’t take long to play Par 3’s -which are generally only 9 holes. 18-hole courses can take several hours to play and if even one member in a group is ummm…struggling shall we say this can make things way worse. Usually there’s only so much trouble you can get yourself in on Par 3’s. If you’ve ever watched Uncle Joe shank a half dozen Maxflis in the woods on one par 5 you know what I mean.
What is the role of the caddy master in golf?
The caddy-master has an a flat in the clubhouse and he is responsible for closing off the golfcourse and the driving range.
Why are 4 irons sold through wedge?
One reason most sets are now sold 4 iron through to Wedge is that now days many manufactures' 4 Irons are what once was a 3 Iron loft. When you get on a lie board a club fitter will quickly see if the lie is making you hit more in the toe or heal of the club.
Can you walk on a golf cart in Florida?
In Florida we have laws allowing public access to beaches but not golf courses. Even publicly owned courses have to protect their properties by limiting access. There may be some that allow access at certain times, but I don’t know of any. Many do look the other way on people walking the cart paths after hours as long as the course isn’t experiencing any problems.
When Is 'Cart Path Only' in Effect?
Whenever the golf course says it is! Some courses observe cart-path-only rules at all times. Most courses, though, impose cart part only in response to turf conditions. The most common reason is when the golf course is wet, particularly after a strong rain. Riding your cart through roughand out into the fairway after a r…
How Do You Know When 'Cart Path Only' Is in Effect?
- The golf course needs to let golfers know. This may be done by the posting of signs in the pro shop and around the first tee; or the posting of signs on designated holes if "cart path only" doesn't apply to the entire course. Golfers should also be told when they pay and/or when they check in with the starter what the cart rules are for the round. If a course has any holes that are …
The 'Cart Path Only' Rule Shouldn't Slow You Down
- Some of you may be thinking, "Wait, if I can't drive the cart directly to my golf ball, isn't that going to slow things down?" No, it shouldn't, and it's the golfer's responsibility not to let it. Be ready to play when it's your turn to hit. It's as simple as that. One way golfers slow things down on a cart-path-only day is by walking from their cartto the their ball with only one club in hand, discovering …
Does 'Cart Path Only' Apply to Push Carts?
- At some golf courses yes, at some no. Whether push carts are allowed on fairways when the course is designated "cart path only" is something that differs from course to course. If you're using a push cart, you'll need to ask about this if the course doesn't make it clear either through signage or with verbal instructions.
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