Today we will take a deep dive into the do's and don'ts of golf etiquette and give you all a crash course on golf etiquette. Whether you are new to the game or have been playing for years, it's always good to get a refresher on how to act when you get that phone call to play at a nicer course than the 9-hole muni.
Growing up, my "crash course" on golf etiquette came from my grandfather. As a kid, I grew up playing and practicing at Leo. J. Martin. You know the deal with that place if you're local to Boston. If you're not, I'll spare you the details. At Leo J, basic golf etiquette is all you really need. Let's arm you with a little more than the basics to remember when you play with a client, your boss, or your father-in-law.
Golf etiquette is a crucial aspect of the game, these bylaws are designed to ensure that everyone in your group, and on the course enjoys their round while maintaining respect for the course, your fellow golfers, and the sport. Of course, the principles of etiquette apply in all arenas, there are some differences in expectations to keep in mind whether you're playing at a municipal course, a semi-private golf club, or a more prestigious country club. Here's a rundown of things to remember wherever you swing the sticks.
Respect for the Course
One of the most important aspects of golf etiquette is taking care of the course. Always repair divots in the fairway and ball marks on the greens. Most courses provide a sand and seed mix to fill divots, or you can replace the sod if it's intact. After hitting a shot from a bunker, rake the sand to remove any footprints or club marks, leaving the bunker in good condition for the next player.
Be mindful of how you walk on the greens, especially near the hole, and avoid dragging your feet or leaning on your putter. On the tee box, avoid taking excessive practice swings that damage the area. Cart rules should also be followed diligently.
At municipal courses, carts may be restricted to certain areas, such as using the 90-degree rule or staying on cart paths. Country Clubs might have more advanced systems like GPS to indicate cart restrictions. Regardless, always park the cart away from greens, tees, and bunkers.
Pace of Play
Maintaining a good pace of play is key to ensuring everyone enjoys their round. Always keep up with the group ahead of you. If your group is slower than the group behind you, it’s courteous to allow them to play through. Be ready to play when it’s your turn; don’t wait until your turn to start preparing for your shot. Take practice swings while others are hitting so you’re ready to step up.
The rules now allow only three minutes to search for a lost ball, so if you can’t find it quickly, declare it lost and drop a new ball to keep things moving. Playing “ready golf,” where players hit when ready rather than waiting for the furthest golfer, is common at public courses, though country clubs may prefer to follow traditional rules where the player furthest from the hole plays first.
On the Tee Box
When on the tee box, it’s important to stand clear and remain quiet while others are teeing off. Stand to the side and slightly behind the person hitting, and wait until their shot is complete before moving or speaking.
At more formal courses, there’s a tradition called “honors,” where the player with the best score on the previous hole tees off first. This is often strictly followed at country clubs, but at municipal courses, it’s more common to play “ready golf” to speed up play.
On the Fairway and Approach
While waiting for your turn in the fairway, always be mindful of where you stand. Avoid positioning yourself in the direct line of sight of other golfers or too close to someone about to hit. Keep distractions like talking, unnecessary movement, and phone use to a minimum. To maintain pace, bring more than one club if you’re unsure which to use, instead of returning to the cart for the correct club after reaching your ball.
On the Green
When your ball lands on the green, it’s important to mark it with a small coin or marker if it’s in the line of another player’s putt. Make sure to replace it in the exact same spot when it’s your turn. One of the most crucial rules on the green is to avoid walking on another player’s putting line. Be aware of where their ball is and take care to step around it.
As per updated rules, players can now leave the flagstick in the hole while putting, which is common practice at municipal and public courses, though many prestigious country clubs still prefer to have the flag removed. If you’re responsible for the flag, replace it gently. If your ball is close to the hole, it’s courteous to finish putting out rather than marking and waiting for your next turn, especially in casual rounds to help maintain the pace.
General Courtesy
Dress codes vary depending on the type of course. Municipal courses typically have relaxed rules, allowing casual attire like t-shirts and shorts. Public courses usually expect players to wear collared shirts and proper golf attire, while country clubs often have strict dress codes, requiring collared shirts, slacks, and appropriate-length shorts. Some clubs may even require jackets in the clubhouse. Maintaining respectful behavior is essential in all settings.
Excessive drinking, swearing, or unruly conduct is frowned upon, especially at country clubs where expectations for decorum are higher. Cell phone use is another area where etiquette varies. At municipal and public courses, moderate phone use is acceptable, but at some clubs, phone use is often strictly prohibited on the course and in public areas of the clubhouse.
Most importantly, always respect staff members, from starters and marshals to clubhouse employees and the pro staff. This is especially important at country clubs, where maintaining good relationships with staff plays a part in upholding the club’s culture.
Interaction with Other Golfers
Introducing yourself to other golfers, particularly if you’re joining a group of strangers, is polite at any course. When visiting country clubs, formal introductions are customary, especially when playing as a guest. Remember, members at some clubs take their club culture and history very seriously. Act like you belong there.
However, offering unsolicited advice on someone’s game is generally discouraged unless specifically asked. When someone hits a good shot, it’s always courteous to acknowledge it, regardless of whether you know them or you don't. This fosters a positive atmosphere and camaraderie among you and your playing partners. My dad once said, "You don't have to like the guy, you just have to golf with him." so spread that positive energy (even briefly) on the course.
Handling Bad Weather
Safety is the name of the game when bad weather comes knocking. As New Englanders, we experience 3 of the 4 seasons before the turn in some months. If there's lightning, head back to the clubhouse or take shelter swiftly. While many courses have warning systems for lighting, you will still find that others don't have such luxuries. Listen for that air horn, and stay safe.
If rain is the only obstacle and the course remains open, you likely won't be called off. Keep playing as long as the conditions remain safe. It's always good to respect your group's decision if they prefer to call it a day and head to the 19th hole instead of slugging it out in a downpour.
Tipping and Gratitude
Tipping is a part of golf culture, particularly at public courses and country clubs. If you’re using a caddie or receiving assistance from bag staff, it’s customary to offer a tip based on their service. Caddies usually receive a more substantial tip depending on the level of service provided. Additionally, when dining or drinking in the clubhouse, tip your bartenders and servers. They work hard and have to listen to you talk about the 5 footer that you "barely" missed on 18. Country Clubs often have higher expectations for tipping, but even at public courses, it’s appreciated.
Summary
At municipal courses, the rules are often more relaxed regarding dress codes and the pace of play. “Ready golf” is common, and there’s less emphasis on traditions like “honors” and strict flagstick handling. Public courses sit in the middle, where golfers tend to be more serious, and there’s a balance between casual and formal etiquette. At country clubs, etiquette is strictly observed. Dress codes are more formal, the pace of play is monitored closely, and adherence to traditional golf customs is expected. Relationships with staff, dress standards, and overall decorum are important parts of the club experience.
If you follow these guidelines, you'll certainly get an invite back to that nice course while enhancing your own experience. Respect the game and respect traditions regardless of where you're playing.
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