Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Penalty relief is a Rules of Golf option to continue play after a specified situation by adding one or more penalty strokes and using a prescribed relief procedure. It is different from free relief, where a Rule permits moving the ball without a penalty stroke.
How it matters in match play
Penalty relief counts in the player's strokes for that hole. In match play, the hole is decided by comparing each player's strokes, including penalty strokes, unless a concession or another match-play result applies. For example, taking one-stroke relief can turn an otherwise tied hole into a loss, so state the penalty and relief choice to the opponent promptly.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Penalty Relief |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf (2023), Rules 3.2a(1), 3.2d, 17.1d, 18.1-18.2b and 19.1-19.3 |
| Related concepts | Penalty Stroke, Free Relief, Stroke and Distance, Lateral Relief, Back-on-the-Line Relief |
Worked example
Alex's tee shot is lost out of bounds, so he takes stroke-and-distance penalty relief: after one tee stroke and one penalty stroke, he plays his third shot from the teeing area; if Ben makes 4, Alex's 5 loses the hole.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf (2023), Rules 3.2a(1), 3.2d, 17.1d, 18.1-18.2b and 19.1-19.3
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Is penalty relief the same as free relief?
No. Penalty relief adds the stroke or strokes required by the applicable Rule. Free relief, such as relief for certain abnormal course conditions, is taken without a penalty stroke when its conditions are met.
How many penalty strokes does penalty relief add?
It depends on the situation. Rule 17 penalty-area relief and the usual Rule 19 unplayable-ball options add one stroke; Rule 19.3b allows back-on-the-line relief outside a bunker for a total of two strokes. Rule 18 stroke-and-distance relief adds one stroke.
Can penalty relief change who wins a match-play hole?
Yes. Match-play hole scores include strokes and penalty strokes. If Alex takes one penalty stroke and finishes in five while Ben finishes in four, Ben wins that hole unless it is conceded or another Rule changes the result.
Can I take unplayable-ball relief inside a penalty area?
No. Rule 19 allows unplayable-ball relief anywhere except in a penalty area. If the ball is in a penalty area, the player must use the applicable penalty-area relief under Rule 17 instead.
What is the usual relief for a lost ball or ball out of bounds?
The player normally takes stroke-and-distance relief under Rule 18: add one penalty stroke and play from where the previous stroke was made. A Local Rule may provide an alternative in limited circumstances, so check the Terms of the Competition.
Does a red penalty area offer more relief choices than a yellow one?
Usually, yes. For one penalty stroke, both red and yellow penalty areas offer stroke-and-distance and back-on-the-line relief. A red penalty area also offers lateral relief, subject to Rule 17's limits and any applicable Local Rule.