Page type: Glossary / definition
Free tool: Open the calculator →
Meaning
Free relief allows a ball to be moved without a penalty stroke when a Rule permits it. Rule 16 covers specified abnormal course conditions and embedded balls in the general area. The permitted procedure and limitations depend on the condition and ball's location.
How it matters in match play
Free relief works the same way in match play as in other forms of play: when the relevant Rule permits it, the player may take the stated relief without a penalty stroke. For a cart path interfering with Alex's stance, Alex identifies the nearest point of complete relief and uses the applicable relief area. Ben may check the procedure, and a wrong-place breach can affect the hole under the general penalty.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Free Relief |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf Rule 16, especially Rule 16.1; Rule 16.3 for an embedded ball |
| Related concepts | Abnormal Course Condition, Immovable Obstruction, Nearest Point of Complete Relief, Relief Area, Penalty Relief |
Worked example
Alex's ball lies on an artificially surfaced cart path in the general area, and the path interferes with Alex's stance; Alex takes free relief by dropping within one club-length of the nearest point of complete relief, no nearer the hole, so the score is not increased by a penalty stroke.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf Rule 16, especially Rule 16.1; Rule 16.3 for an embedded ball
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Does free relief always mean a perfect lie?
No. The ball must be dropped or placed in the prescribed relief area, and that area may still leave an unattractive lie. The nearest point of complete relief is the closest point with no interference, not necessarily the best-looking place to play from.
Can I take free relief from an abnormal course condition in a penalty area?
Generally, no. Rule 16.1 does not provide free relief from an abnormal course condition when the ball is in a penalty area; the relevant penalty-area options are dealt with under Rule 17. Dangerous animal conditions have separate provisions in Rule 16.2.
How much free relief do I get from a cart path?
For a ball in the general area, the reference point is the nearest point of complete relief. The relief area is one club-length from that point, must be in the general area, must not be nearer the hole, and must provide complete relief from the condition. A Local Rule may treat some artificial paths as integral objects, in which case free relief is not available.
Is free relief available in match play?
Yes, when the applicable Rule allows it. The player follows the same relief procedure without a penalty stroke, while the opponent may raise a Rules question or request a ruling under the match-play procedures.
Can I lift the ball to check whether free relief applies?
If you reasonably believe the ball lies in a condition where free relief may be allowed but cannot decide without lifting it, you may mark and lift the ball to inspect it. Do not clean it unless it is on the putting green, then replace it if relief is not taken.
Is an unplayable-ball option free relief?
No. Unplayable-ball relief under Rule 19 carries a one-stroke penalty. Free relief is a separate entitlement that applies only when a specific Rule or applicable Local Rule provides it.