Movable Obstructions (Rakes, Stakes and Other Objects)
Also known as: movable obstruction, movable obstructions, can I move a rake, move a rake, can I move a stake, remove a stake, move a bunker rake, ball against a rake, artificial object near my ball
Yes, you may move a rake or most stakes without penalty. They are movable obstructions, and Rule 15.2 lets you remove one anywhere on the course. The exception is a white boundary stake, which you must not move. If your ball moves while you remove an obstruction, there is no penalty and you replace it.
An obstruction is any artificial object on the course. A movable obstruction is one you can move with reasonable effort and without damage. Rakes, bottles, towels and most penalty area stakes are examples. Under Rule 15.2a you may remove one in any way, even in a bunker or penalty area.
If your ball moves while you do it, there is no penalty. Put the ball back on its spot. If your ball rests in or on the object, such as a towel, lift the ball and remove the object. Then drop within one club-length of the spot below it, no nearer the hole. On the putting green, place it instead.
Boundary stakes are different. They are boundary objects, not obstructions. You must not move them to improve your shot. Tee markers also must not be moved when you play from that teeing area.
Tips by skill level
If it is artificial and you can lift it easily, you can usually move it. Leave white stakes alone.
A committee can declare a movable object immovable. Check the local rules if a fixed sign or stake looks movable.
Example
A golfer's ball stops against a rake in a bunker. He lifts the rake away, and the ball rolls slightly. He replaces it with no penalty and plays on.
Why it matters
Knowing what you may move saves needless penalties. It also stops you moving a stake you must leave alone.
Common mistakes
- Pulling up a white out-of-bounds stake to make room for a swing
- Playing the ball off a towel or bag instead of taking relief
- Not replacing a ball that moved when an obstruction was removed
Frequently asked questions
Can I move a stake in golf?
Yes, if it is a movable stake such as a red or yellow penalty area stake. You must not move a white boundary stake.
What happens if my ball moves when I move the rake?
There is no penalty. Replace the ball on its original spot under Rule 15.2a.
Sources
Related terms
- Loose ImpedimentsLoose impediments are unattached natural objects such as leaves, twigs, stones and loose grass, and you may move them without penalty. That applies anywhere on the course, including bunkers and penalty areas. But if moving one makes your ball move, you get one penalty stroke and must replace the ball. The exception is a ball on the putting green or teeing area, where there is no penalty.
- Cart Path Relief (Immovable Obstructions)An artificially surfaced cart path is an immovable obstruction, so relief from it is free. You get it when your ball is on the path or the path affects your stance or swing. Drop within one club-length of the nearest point of complete relief, no nearer the hole. You can't choose the side of the path, and the drop must give complete relief.
- Free ReliefFree relief is moving the ball to a better spot without a penalty. It covers cases like an immovable obstruction, ground under repair, or an embedded ball.
- Golf Course Stakes and Markers (What the Colors Mean)White stakes or lines mark out of bounds. Yellow stakes or lines mark a yellow penalty area, and red ones mark a red penalty area with an extra sideways relief option. Distance markers, such as posts, plates and sprinkler heads, show yardages to the green, but their colors vary by course.
- Bunker Rules (Touching the Sand)In a bunker you must not touch the sand with your club right in front of or behind the ball. You also must not touch it in a practice swing, in your backswing, or on purpose to test it. The penalty is two strokes in stroke play or loss of the hole in match play.
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