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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/golf-local-rule-e5-not-elite

The Local Rule alternative to stroke and distance is meant for which golfers?

Casual and club golfers, not professional or elite amateur events.

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  1. Only professional tours
  2. Only junior golfers under 18
  3. Casual rounds and club competitions ✔

Why: The R&A says Local Rule E-5 suits general play, like casual rounds or a club's own competitions. It is not appropriate for competitions limited to highly skilled players.

Huh, didn't know that: A club may use it for the whole course or only on one or two holes with blind landing areas.

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Why don't the pros use E-5? They'd rather walk back than admit they lost one.
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References

Answer: Casual rounds and club competitions. The R&A says Local Rule E-5 suits general play, like casual rounds or a club's own competitions. It is not appropriate for competitions limited to highly skilled players.

  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 Local Rule is appropriate for general play where golfers are playing casual rounds or playing their own competitions.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Test yourself in the game

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