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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/golf-local-rule-e5-alternative

Under the optional Local Rule alternative to stroke and distance, what does a lost or out of bounds ball cost?

Two penalty strokes, with a drop out near the fairway instead of walking back.

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  1. One penalty stroke
  2. Two penalty strokes ✔
  3. Three penalty strokes

Why: Model Local Rule E-5 lets a club offer a drop between where the ball was lost or went out and the edge of the fairway, for two penalty strokes. That is about what stroke and distance would cost.

Huh, didn't know that: It cannot be used for an unplayable ball or a ball known to be in a penalty area.

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Why do casual golfers love Local Rule E-5? It saves them a long walk of shame back to the tee.
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References

Answer: Two penalty strokes. Model Local Rule E-5 lets a club offer a drop between where the ball was lost or went out and the edge of the fairway, for two penalty strokes. That is about what stroke and distance would cost.

  1. The R&A, Rules of Golf, Committee Procedures Section 8, Model Local Rule E-5 www.randa.org/en/rog/committee-procedures/8
    The player gets two penalty strokes when using this relief option.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessThe Local Rule alternative to stroke and distance is meant for which golfers?Sports & FitnessWhen is a golf ball at rest out of bounds?Sports & FitnessYour tee shot goes out of bounds. What must you do under the standard rule?

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