Marking, dropping and replacing
The R&A / USGA · 2023Use the correct spot and procedure, and correct mistakes before playing.
Mark and replace
Mark a ball before lifting it when it must be replaced on its original spot. Lifting for relief does not require marking. Cleaning restrictions apply when checking damage, identifying a ball, lifting for interference or checking entitlement to relief. Normally replace the original ball by hand on its original spot, estimated if unknown. Incorrect marking or unauthorised cleaning normally costs 1 penalty stroke. Correct a procedural mistake before making a stroke when the Rules allow.
Dropping and wrong places
The player drops straight down from knee height, without spinning or throwing, and without touching body or equipment before the ground. Drop in the relief area, or on the required line; the ball must rest in the relief area. After 2 correct drops finish outside it, place on the second drop’s first ground-contact spot. Playing from a wrong place brings the general penalty; a serious stroke-play breach must be corrected before the next hole or returning the final scorecard.
Sources & approach ↗