Objects that define
out of bounds (e.g., stakes, walls, fences) are not obstructions. They are
deemed to be “fixed.” There is no free
relief if an object that defines out of bounds interferes with your shot.
If you cannot play your ball, you must choose one of the relief options
available in Rule 28: Unplayable Ball (stroke and distance, flagline, two
club-lengths). All of these relief options include a one-stroke penalty.
If the boundary is marked by stakes, you may not remove
them. Again, they are not obstructions.
If the boundary is indicated by both lines and stakes, the lines define out of
bounds and the stakes identify it. These
identifying stakes are still deemed to be fixed. They are not obstructions – no
free relief. (A Committee may adopt a Local Rule labeling identifying stakes
as obstructions, but this is uncommon. If you have not read a notice that the
identifying stakes are obstructions, they are fixed – no free relief.)
All of this information can be found in the Definition of “Out
of Bounds” in the front of your rulebook.
