Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A movable obstruction is an artificial object that can be moved with reasonable effort without damaging the object or the course. Examples include a water bottle, scorecard, broken tee, bench or rake. Boundary objects and integral objects are not obstructions, so they are not treated this way.
How it matters in match play
Rule 15.2 applies in match play just as it does in other forms of play. A player may normally remove a movable obstruction without penalty, anywhere on or off the course. If the ball moves during removal, there is no penalty and it must be replaced. The exceptions include moving tee-markers when the ball will be played from the teeing area and deliberately removing an obstruction to affect a ball in motion.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Movable Obstruction |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rule 15.2; Definitions (Movable Obstruction and Obstruction) |
| Related concepts | Obstruction, Immovable Obstruction, Loose Impediment, Free Relief, Ball at Rest |
Worked example
Alex leads Ben 2 up after 12 holes when Alex's ball lies beside a movable rubbish bin; Alex moves the bin without penalty, and if the ball moves during that removal, Alex replaces it on its estimated original spot before continuing.
Rule reference: Rule 15.2; Definitions (Movable Obstruction and Obstruction)
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
What is a movable obstruction in golf?
It is an artificial object that can be moved with reasonable effort and without damaging the object or the course. A bottle, rake, bench, scorecard or broken tee can be an example, depending on the circumstances.
Can I move a movable obstruction without penalty in match play?
Yes. Rule 15.2 normally allows a player to remove one anywhere on or off the course without penalty. The main exceptions include tee-markers when the ball will be played from the teeing area and deliberate removal intended to affect a ball in motion.
What if my ball moves when I remove a movable obstruction?
There is no penalty under Rule 15.2a for the ball moving while the obstruction is removed. Replace the ball on its original spot, or estimate that spot if it is not known.
Is a boundary fence a movable obstruction?
No. Boundary objects are not obstructions, even if part of them can move, and the Rules do not provide free relief from them. An integral object is also excluded from the obstruction definition.
Can I take relief if my ball is in or on a movable obstruction?
Yes. Rule 15.2 allows free relief. Remove the obstruction and drop a ball using the specified reference point and relief area; on the putting green, the ball is placed rather than dropped.
Does moving a movable obstruction count as improving my lie?
Not normally: Rule 15.2 expressly permits its removal. However, separate restrictions apply if a player deliberately removes or positions an obstruction to affect a ball in motion or to improve conditions for a stroke contrary to the Rules.