Preferred Lies

Adverse conditions such as heavy snows, spring thaws, prolonged rains or extreme heat can sometimes damage the course or prevent use of heavy mowing equipment.

When such conditions are widespread on the course, the Committee can choose to adopt a Local Rule for “preferred lies” (also known as “winter rules”) to allow fair play or help protect the fairway. Such a Local Rule should be withdrawn as soon as conditions allow.

The use of this Local Rule outside the fairway in the general area is not recommended as it may result in a player receiving free relief from areas where a ball might otherwise be unplayable (such as in areas of bushes or trees).

In competition play, it is not authorized to implement this Local Rule once play has begun for a stroke-play round. Doing so would allow players who have more holes to play the advantage of using it for a longer period of time. The Local Rule could be implemented once a match has begun between the play of two holes as opponents have an equal benefit.

For guidance on drafting the Local Rule, please refer to Model Local Rule E-3 in the Rules of Golf.

Scores made while the Local Rule for preferred lies is in effect must be posted unless the Handicap Committee (in consultation with their AGA) determines that course conditions are so poor that score posting should be temporarily suspended. Scores may also be acceptable if the player elects to proceed under this Local Rule if it has not been adopted by the Committee.