The United States Golf Association, which governs the Rules of Golf alongside The R&A, updates its regulations to preserve consistency and uphold the game’s traditional demands. These revisions often address issues that arise during competition and at recreational levels, ensuring the course is presented and played as intended.

Putting greens receive special attention because they are the most sensitive surfaces on a golf course, and even minor disruptions can influence performance.

The latest adjustment focuses on how damage to putting greens is managed. Under Rule 13.1c(2), players are now allowed to repair almost any form of damage that affects the surface. The rule defines damage as ball marks, shoe marks, indentations created by clubs or flagsticks and marks caused by animals. The permission does not apply to aeration holes or natural imperfections.

 This change removes the need to determine whether a mark was created by a ball or a shoe, a distinction that previously created uncertainty and inconsistent rulings. The intention is to allow the green to be restored to its proper playing condition so that the surface reflects the skill of the player rather than unrelated disruptions.

Officials considered concerns that expanded repair rights might slow play. They concluded that existing pace guidelines and committee policies are sufficient to address unnecessary delays. The adjustment aligns with long-standing permissions that allow players to mark, lift, and clean a ball on the green and remove loose material from the surface.

By allowing players to correct damage that directly affects a putt, the rule supports fair play and reduces the number of situations that require intervention from referees.

The Previous Rule Change Affecting Putting Greens

The most recent revision that influenced putting green procedures occurred in 2019 during the broad update to the Rules of Golf. That transition introduced several changes, including the ability to repair spike marks and other shoe-related damage. It also allowed players to putt with the flagstick left in the hole. 

These adjustments were introduced to simplify procedures and reduce penalties for actions that did not offer a competitive advantage. The current update continues that direction by removing another point of confusion and supporting consistent course conditions for every player throughout a round.

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Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu