Rules of Golf » Out of Bounds

White Stakes: Out of Bounds (1-stroke + Distance Penalty)

White stakes or white lines are used to indicate out-of-bounds (OB). A course can mark out-of-bounds in other ways, too. For example, a fence might mark the boundary along certain parts of a course.

YOU HAVE 1 OPTION for a ball that heads out-of-bounds; beyond white stakes or white lines.

If you hit your ball out-of-bounds, assess yourself a 1-stroke penalty. Return to the spot of the previous shot and hit it again (stroke-and-distance penalty). To maintain pace of play, if a player believes his/her ball may be out-of-bounds, it is suggested to hit a provisional ball.

The line always takes precedence over the stakes.