Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Out of Bounds is the area outside the course boundary set by the Committee. A ball is out of bounds only when all of it is beyond the boundary edge. The boundary may be identified by objects or lines, as specified for the course.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a ball out of bounds normally requires stroke-and-distance relief: add one penalty stroke and play again from where the previous stroke was made. The resulting strokes and penalty stroke count when comparing the hole with the opponent. A provisional ball can save time if the original might be out of bounds, but it must be announced before the stroke.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Out of Bounds |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf (2023), Rule 2.1 and Rule 18.2; provisional ball, Rule 18.3 |
| Related concepts | Boundary Object, Penalty Stroke, Stroke and Distance, Provisional Ball, Match Play |
Worked example
Alex drives out of bounds, then replays from the tee: the drive counts as stroke 1, the penalty makes the next play stroke 3, and Alex holes out in 5. If Ben completes the hole in 4, Ben wins that hole; the example is illustrative, not a historical result.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf (2023), Rule 2.1 and Rule 18.2; provisional ball, Rule 18.3
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
How many penalty strokes is Out of Bounds in golf?
Under the normal Rule 18.2 procedure, Out of Bounds carries one penalty stroke plus stroke-and-distance relief. You play again from where the previous stroke was made. A Committee may adopt the applicable Local Rule giving an alternative procedure with two penalty strokes, so check the Terms of the Competition.
Can I play a provisional ball if my ball may be Out of Bounds?
Yes. Before making the stroke, announce that it is a provisional ball, or otherwise clearly indicate that status. If the original ball is out of bounds, the provisional becomes the ball in play under stroke and distance, avoiding a walk back to the previous spot.
Does Out of Bounds automatically lose a hole in match play?
No. Out of Bounds normally adds a penalty stroke and requires playing again from the previous spot. The hole is then decided by the players’ resulting scores, including penalty strokes; the player with the higher score may lose the hole, but the breach itself is not an automatic loss of hole.
When is a ball officially Out of Bounds?
The ball is Out of Bounds only when all of it is beyond the boundary edge. If any part of the ball is on or above the boundary edge, it is not Out of Bounds under Rule 18.2.
Can a local rule change the normal Out of Bounds procedure?
A Committee can put the applicable Model Local Rule into effect for an alternative to stroke and distance in suitable circumstances. It is not automatic: read the local rules or Terms of the Competition before using it.
Is Out of Bounds the same as a penalty area?
No. Out of Bounds is outside the course boundary and normally uses stroke-and-distance relief. A penalty area is a defined area of the course with its own Rule 17 relief options, so do not apply penalty-area relief merely because a ball is difficult to find.