Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A boundary object is an artificial object that defines or shows the course boundary and out of bounds, such as a wall, fence, stake or railing. Under the Rules, free relief is not available from it, and it is treated as immovable even if movable.
How it matters in match play
Boundary objects have the same Rules meaning in match play as in other forms of play; they do not create a special match-play exception. If a ball is wholly beyond the boundary edge, it is out of bounds and the player must use stroke-and-distance relief with one penalty stroke. That penalty affects the hole result, so players should agree which object defines the boundary before continuing.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Boundary Object |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Definitions; Rules 2.1, 8.1a and 18.2 |
| Related concepts | Out of Bounds, Immovable Obstruction, Obstruction, Free Relief, Penalty Stroke |
Worked example
Alex's tee shot is out of bounds beyond a boundary fence; he adds one penalty stroke, plays again from the tee, and then takes three further strokes to hole out, giving him a Hole Score of 5 for that hole.
Rule reference: Definitions; Rules 2.1, 8.1a and 18.2
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Can I take free relief from a Boundary Object?
No. The definition excludes free relief from a Boundary Object. Treating a boundary fence, wall or stake as an ordinary Obstruction is incorrect; Rule 16.1 also expressly excludes Boundary Objects from its free-relief provision.
Can a Boundary Object be moved if it blocks my swing?
Normally no. Rule 8.1a prohibits moving, bending or breaking a Boundary Object to improve conditions affecting the stroke. If a player has moved one and can restore the original condition using the original object before the next stroke, Rule 8.1c provides a limited restoration exception.
Does a Boundary Object automatically mean the ball is out of bounds?
No. A ball is out of bounds only when all of it is outside the boundary edge. The Committee sets the course boundary, and a Boundary Object or line shows that edge. A ball that remains partly inside the boundary is still in bounds.