Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Back-on-the-line relief lets a player drop behind a specified reference point while keeping that point between the hole and the drop. The player chooses how far back to go, drops on the reference line, and then plays from the one-club-length relief area created by the drop.
How it matters in match play
The relief procedure is the same in match play as in other forms of play, but the consequence is recorded against the hole rather than added to a round total. For example, after a penalty-area ball, Alex may take one-stroke back-on-the-line relief under Rule 17.1d(2), then continue the hole from the resulting relief area. A concession or hole result still follows the match situation.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Back-on-the-Line Relief |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf (2023), Rule 14.3b(3), Rule 17.1d(2), Rule 19.2b |
| Related concepts | Penalty Relief, Penalty Area, Unplayable Ball, Relief Area, Drop |
Worked example
Alex's ball last crossed a yellow penalty area 120 metres from the hole. For one penalty stroke, Alex drops on a line through that crossing point and the hole, 15 metres back; the drop creates a one-club-length relief area, and Alex plays from there.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf (2023), Rule 14.3b(3), Rule 17.1d(2), Rule 19.2b
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , rules.usga.org
Common questions
How far back can I take back-on-the-line relief?
There is no fixed maximum distance. You may go as far back as you wish on the reference line, subject to the applicable Rule and the requirement that the reference point stays between the hole and the dropped ball.
Where must the ball be dropped?
The ball must be dropped on the reference line, from knee height under the normal dropping procedure. The spot where it first touches the ground creates a relief area one club-length in any direction, subject to the limits of the applicable Rule.
Can I use this relief for a ball in a penalty area?
Yes. For one penalty stroke, back-on-the-line relief is available under Rule 17.1d(2) for a ball in either a yellow or red penalty area, using the estimated point where the ball last crossed the edge. Rule 19 unplayable-ball relief is not available while the ball is in a penalty area.
Is back-on-the-line relief available for an unplayable ball?
Yes. Under Rule 19.2b, a player may take it for one penalty stroke by keeping the original ball's spot between the hole and the drop. The original ball's spot must be known for this option.
What happens if the ball does not stay in the relief area?
Follow the dropping procedure in Rule 14.3: after a correct drop that does not come to rest in the relief area, place a ball where the second drop first touched the ground. If the placed ball will not stay, use the nearest spot where it will stay, within the rule's limits.
Does back-on-the-line relief always cost one penalty stroke?
Not always. Penalty-area relief under Rule 17.1d(2) and ordinary unplayable-ball relief under Rule 19.2b each add one penalty stroke. Taking the special outside-the-bunker option under Rule 19.3b costs two strokes in total, while some other relief Rules have their own consequences.