Rules of Golf » Unplayable Lie

Uh oh, looks like I have a situation here. Before you do anything with the ball, examine all your options. It’s not worth damaging you or your club.

Join me as I assess my options and provide options when you find your ball nestled against a tree. I play it, and I show you how to take an unplayable lie.

Unplayable Official Rules Definition:
The player may deem his/her ball unplayable at any place on the course; except when the ball is in a water hazard. The player is the sole judge as to whether the ball is unplayable.

You have three options when taking an unplayable lie. All come with a one-stroke penalty.

OPTION 1: You can play a ball from the spot your original ball was last played. It is called, “stroke and distance.”

OPTION 2: You can drop a ball within two club lengths of where the ball lies; no closer to the hole.

OPTION 3: You can draw a line between the flag and your ball. Drop a ball as far back as you would like along an extension of that line away from the hole.

Plus, I share a key point if your ball rolls beyond 2 club lengths.