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, fellow players immediately start searching – while the player involved casually follows behind. The question arises: when exactly does the clock start? 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 other players or spectators begin searching – the three-minute countdown starts only when the player starts the search themselves.
Since 2019, the allowed search time is limited to three minutes. Previously, it was five minutes, but rules were adjusted to speed up play. If the ball is not found within this time, it is considered lost, and the player must return to the previous spot with a penalty stroke.
When Delays Cost You – How Golf Rules Enforce Fair Play
Still, some golfers take their time. The rules clearly state that if a player deliberately delays to let their group do the initial searching, they cannot argue the search started later. The clock runs from the moment the player could have started searching without delay, ensuring fair and smooth play.
Found but Not Identified Yet
If the ball is spotted within the time limit, the search ends per the time rule. But what if it’s unclear whether the ball is the player’s own? No problem: the rules allow a reasonable amount of time for identification. The ball may be lifted, marked, and lightly cleaned as long as the position is marked. It is important the ball is found within three minutes; after that, a player may spend more time confirming the ball’s identity.
If two identical balls are found, causing confusion, the player may decide which ball is provisional, removing the other from play. This also helps maintain clarity during play.
Ball Moved During Search? No Penalty if Replaced Correctly
In thick rough or sand, the ball may be accidentally moved during the search. The rules state this is not penalized as long as the ball is replaced to its original position, whether under branches or partly in sand. Golf rules leave no room for interpretation: those searching must act correctly and fairly.