Three minutes are allowed to search for a lost ball – but when exactly does the countdown start according to golf rules?
Everyone knows the scene: a ball disappears into thick rough, playing partners immediately start searching while the player casually approaches. The question arises: when exactly does the clock start? The golf rules are clear: the search time begins only when the player or their caddie actively starts searching. According to Rule 18.2a, it does not matter when others begin searching in the rough – the three-minute countdown starts only when the player himself or herself begins the search.
Since 2019, the allowed search time has been limited to three minutes, down from five minutes previously. This change was made to speed up play. If the ball is not found within this time frame, it is considered lost, and the player must return to the previous spot with a penalty stroke.
Whoever Delays, Loses – How Golf Rules Enforce Fair Play
Still, some golfers take their time. However, the rules address this: if a player intentionally delays starting the search to let others do the work, they cannot claim a later start time. The clock runs from the moment the player could have reasonably started searching without delay. This keeps play fair and smooth.
Found Is Not Always Identified
If the ball is spotted within the time, the search is over as per the time rule. But what if it is unclear whether it is the player’s own ball? The rules allow a reasonable time to identify the ball. It may be lifted, marked, and lightly cleaned as long as the spot is marked. The important part is that the ball is found within three minutes; afterwards, the player can take time to confirm it is indeed their ball.
When two identical balls lie in the search area, confusion can occur. The rules provide a solution: if the original ball cannot be identified, the player may decide which ball is provisional and must remove the other from play.
Ball Moved? No Problem – But Remember to Replace It
In dense rough or sand, the ball can be accidentally moved during searching. The rules state this is not penalized as long as it happens in a normal search. The ball must be replaced at its original spot, whether under branches or partially buried in sand. The rules leave no room for interpretation: the searcher must act correctly.