Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Accidental movement is an unintentional lift or movement of a ball at rest or ball-marker. The Rules usually require the ball to be replaced, while the penalty depends on who caused the movement and where it happened; the putting green has a specific no-penalty exception.
How it matters in match play
In match play, if an opponent accidentally causes your ball at rest to move away from the putting green, the ball is replaced and the opponent normally gets one penalty stroke when the cause is known or virtually certain. Accidental movement on the putting green carries no penalty, but the ball or marker must be restored to its original spot.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Accidental Movement |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf 9.4b, 9.5b, 9.6, 9.7b and 13.1d |
| Related concepts | Ball at Rest, Moved Ball, Putting Green, Match Play, Replacing the Ball |
Worked example
On the 7th hole, Alex accidentally nudges his ball in the general area and it rolls 20 centimetres; Alex replaces it and adds one penalty stroke, while Ben's accidental nudge of Alex's ball on the putting green would mean replacement but no penalty.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf 9.4b, 9.5b, 9.6, 9.7b and 13.1d
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Is there a penalty for accidentally moving a ball on the putting green?
No. Rule 13.1d says there is no penalty when the player, opponent or another player in stroke play accidentally moves the player's ball or ball-marker on the putting green. Restore the ball to its original spot, or mark that spot if the ball is lifted.
What happens when an opponent accidentally moves my ball in match play?
Away from the putting green, the opponent normally gets one penalty stroke if it is known or virtually certain that their action caused your ball to move. Your ball must be replaced on its original spot under Rule 9.5.
What if I am not sure whether my ball moved?
The ball is treated as having moved only when that is known or virtually certain. If movement is merely possible, treat the ball as not moved and play it as it lies under Rule 9.2.