Cold weather and tough course conditions call for special golf rules. Here’s what to keep in mind when playing in winter.
If you want to stay active during the winter and not store your clubs away until spring, there are a few important rules and tips to consider—beyond just wearing the right clothing.
Winter Golf Rule: Preferred Lies
During winter, golf course grounds are often wet, muddy, or even snow-covered. To protect the course while maintaining fair play, clubs may implement special rules—one of the most common being preferred lies.
From November to March, clubs may allow players to move the ball within a certain distance (usually one scorecard length) on closely mown areas, without getting closer to the hole. Always check with your club to see if this rule is in effect.
Before lifting the ball, it must be marked. Players are allowed to clean the ball when using preferred lies. Incorrect application of this rule can result in a two-stroke penalty or loss of hole in match play.
If a ball is embedded—partially below the ground surface in its own pitch mark—free relief is allowed in the general area (excluding bunkers, greens, penalty areas, and tee boxes).
Snow and Ice as Obstacles
When snow is present but the course remains open, players face unique situations. Snow and natural ice can be treated either as loose impediments or temporary water—it’s the player’s choice.
If treated as loose impediments, snow around the ball may be removed, but the ball must not move. If it does, a penalty stroke applies and the ball must be replaced—or another penalty will be added.
If snow is considered temporary water, players may take relief by dropping at the nearest point that offers full relief. This applies in the general area and on the green. In bunkers, relief outside the bunker adds a penalty stroke.
Special Conditions Require Special Measures
Always check local club rules in winter. Frost often means courses are unplayable to prevent damage. Golf carts and trolleys are frequently banned during this time to protect the turf.
To keep play going, many clubs set up winter greens—short-mown areas on fairways that serve as temporary targets, protecting the main greens from frost damage. This way, golfers can enjoy the game year-round and stay in practice.