Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
The Putting Green is the area on the hole being played that is specially prepared for putting, or that the Committee has defined as the Putting Green. A ball is on it when any part of the ball touches it or lies inside its edge on an object.
How it matters in match play
Putting Green is not a separate scoring format; it is an area of the course with special Rules that also apply in match play. A player may mark, lift, clean and replace a ball there, repair most damage and remove sand or loose soil without penalty. The flagstick may be left in or removed, with the decision made before the stroke. These permissions can affect whether a hole is won, lost or halved.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Putting Green |
| Category | rules |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf, Rule 2.2b and Rule 13.1-13.3 |
| Related concepts | Ball at Rest, Marking the Ball, Lifting the Ball, Replacing the Ball, Putt Out |
Worked example
Alex's ball touches the Putting Green on his second stroke; he marks it, lifts and cleans it, then replaces it before putting, so the hole score continues from two strokes.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf, Rule 2.2b and Rule 13.1-13.3
Sources: www.randa.org , www.usga.org , assets-us-01.kc-usercontent.com
Common questions
Can I mark and lift my ball on the Putting Green?
Yes. Rule 13 permits you to mark, lift, clean and replace your ball on the Putting Green. Replace it on the correct spot before making the next stroke.
May I repair every mark on a Putting Green?
No. You may repair most damage, such as ball marks, shoe damage and scrapes from equipment, using reasonable actions. Natural wear, aeration holes, rain damage and natural surface imperfections are not treated as repairable damage under Rule 13.1c.
Can I putt with the flagstick in?
Yes. Rule 13.2 allows the player to leave the flagstick in the hole or have it removed, but the choice must be made before the stroke. A ball normally striking the flagstick carries no penalty.