Page type: Glossary / definition
Free tool: Open the calculator →
Meaning
A Model Local Rule is an authorised template that a Committee may adopt, in full or with permitted changes, for a recognised local course or competition situation. It is not automatically in force: the Committee must choose it, keep it consistent with the Rules, and make it available to players.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a Model Local Rule can change how a particular course or competition is administered, such as defining a boundary or providing a special relief option. Once adopted, the Local Rule has the same status as a Rule of Golf for that competition. Players should check the match information or scorecard; a template that the Committee has not adopted does not alter the match.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Model Local Rule |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Committee Procedures, Section 8 (Model Local Rules); Committee Procedures, Section 3 (Local Rules for General Play) |
| Related concepts | Local Rule, Committee, Match Play, Free Relief, Terms of the Competition |
Worked example
For an illustrative club match, the Committee adopts Model Local Rule E-4 for relief from aeration holes and prints it on the notice to players; Alex may then use the stated relief procedure, but Ben cannot claim that relief at a course that has not adopted the Local Rule.
Rule reference: Committee Procedures, Section 8 (Model Local Rules); Committee Procedures, Section 3 (Local Rules for General Play)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Is a Model Local Rule automatically part of the Rules of Golf?
No. It is an authorised template. The Committee must adopt it for general play or a particular competition, and the adopted Local Rule should be made available to players.
Can a Committee rewrite a Model Local Rule?
Yes, where the change fits the local need and remains consistent with the Model Local Rule's stated purpose and the governing guidelines. A Committee must not change a Rule merely because it prefers a different outcome.
Does a Model Local Rule matter in match play?
It can. An adopted Local Rule applies to that competition or course and has the same status as a Rule of Golf for the competition. Confirm the adopted wording before play, especially where relief or boundaries are involved.
Where can players find an adopted Model Local Rule?
The Committee may provide it on the scorecard, in a notice to players, on a noticeboard, or on the course website. If only shorthand appears on the scorecard, the full text should also be available.
Can an unauthorised Local Rule still make a round a Rules-of-Golf round?
Not necessarily. The R&A says Local Rules inconsistent with the relevant guidelines are not authorised, and a round played with such a Local Rule is not considered to have been played by the Rules of Golf.
Is the aeration-hole example a universal entitlement?
No. It is an illustrative example only. Relief exists in a match only if the Committee has adopted the applicable Local Rule and the player meets its stated conditions.