Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
An Integral Object is an artificial object that the Committee has defined as part of the challenge of playing the course. Free relief is not allowed from it. It is treated as immovable, although a movable part such as a gate may be treated separately.
How it matters in match play
Integral Object has the same Rules meaning in match play as in other forms of play; it is not a special match-play scoring term. If Alex's ball or stance is affected by one, Alex normally plays the ball as it lies or uses another available Rule, rather than taking free relief under Rule 16.1. A match opponent may request a ruling if the Committee's designation or the relief procedure is disputed.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Integral Object |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Definitions (Integral Object); Rule 16.1 |
| Related concepts | Boundary Object, Free Relief, Immovable Obstruction, Committee, Local Rule |
Worked example
Illustrative example: the Committee designates a fixed course feature as an Integral Object; Alex's ball is 2 metres from it and his stance is blocked, so he does not move the ball for free relief under Rule 16.1 and must choose a lawful alternative or play it as it lies.
Rule reference: Definitions (Integral Object); Rule 16.1
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
Can I take free relief from an Integral Object?
No. The definition says free relief is not allowed from an Integral Object, and Rule 16.1 expressly excludes integral objects from its abnormal-course-condition relief. Check the Committee's Local Rule or notices for the course-specific designation.
Is an Integral Object the same as a Boundary Object?
No. A Boundary Object defines or shows out of bounds. An Integral Object is an artificial object the Committee has defined as part of the challenge of playing the course. Both normally deny free relief, but they are separate defined categories.
Can part of an Integral Object be movable?
Yes. If a part such as a gate, door or attached cable meets the definition of a Movable Obstruction, that part is treated as movable. The rest of the Integral Object remains subject to its normal treatment.
Does Integral Object change how a match is scored?
No. It affects whether relief is available during play, not the match's scoring unit. The hole is still won, lost or halved by the applicable Rules after the stroke or strokes are completed.
Who decides whether something is an Integral Object?
The Committee defines an artificial object as an Integral Object. Players should use the Committee's Local Rule, scorecard or other competition information rather than assuming that every fixed artificial feature has that status.
Can I take unplayable-ball relief instead?
An Integral Object itself does not provide free relief, but a player may have another relief option under a different Rule if its conditions are met. For example, unplayable-ball relief is governed separately; apply that Rule and its penalty rather than treating it as free relief.