Rules of Golf
A plain-language reference to the Rules of Golf as published by the USGA and R&A — searchable, scenario-based, and updated as decisions evolve.
Rules of Golf sits at the heart of the ResortGolfer library. Our editors have organized the material below for golfers at every level — from first-time players curious about the fundamentals to mid-handicappers refining a system that already works.
Every page in this cluster is reviewed by playing professionals or PGA-certified instructors, cross-referenced against published research where applicable, and updated as equipment, rules, and tour-level data evolve.
Use the topic grid below as your entry point. Each card opens a deeper guide with practice drills, video references, and links to adjacent material across the site.
Explore the cluster
Hand-edited entry points into the deeper material on this subject.
Relief Procedures
Penalty areas, abnormal conditions, unplayables.
Pace of Play
Ready golf and time guidelines.
On the Green
Marking, repairing, putting from off the green.
Equipment Rules
Conforming clubs, balls, devices.
Match vs Stroke Play
Where the rules differ.
Tournament Procedures
Local rules and committee decisions.