How Golf Relief from Movable Obstructions Works Explainer
A movable obstruction in golf is an artificial object that can be moved with reasonable effort without damaging the object or course. Common examples include rakes, bottles, movable signs, and loose stakes. Boundary objects and objects defined as integral parts of the course are excluded.
A player may remove a movable obstruction anywhere on or off the course without penalty. If the ball moves while the object is being removed, there is no penalty and the ball must be replaced on its original spot, which may be estimated when the exact location is unknown.
When a ball lies in or on the obstruction, the player may lift it, remove the object, and take free relief. Outside a penalty area, the ball is dropped within one club-length of the estimated point directly beneath where it rested, no nearer the hole and in the same course area.
Inside a penalty area, the relief area must remain in that penalty area. A player cannot remove an object while a ball is moving to influence its path. The rule distinguishes ordinary portable course clutter from fixed obstructions, which use the different complete-relief process in Rule 16.
It is an artificial object that can be moved with reasonable effort without damage.
No. The ball is replaced on its original or estimated spot.
No. Boundary objects are excluded even when they can physically be pulled from the ground.
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