Cart Path
Course Areas
Explained Simply
The paved or gravel path running alongside the fairway where golf carts are driven.
Example
“Your ball rolls onto the concrete cart path. You get free relief — find the nearest point off the path, drop within one club-length.”
Why it matters
Balls landing on cart paths are common. You always get free relief from a cart path — no penalty, no charge.
Common beginner mistake
Not claiming free relief from a cart path. You never have to play from pavement.
Related
beginner
Course Areas
Related
- Free ReliefTaking a drop without a penalty stroke — allowed when your ball is in or near certain conditions like casual water, ground under repair, or a cart path.
- Cart Path OnlyA course condition where golf carts must stay on the paved paths and cannot drive on the grass — usually after rain or during course maintenance.
- DropThe official way to put a new ball into play after a penalty or when taking relief. You hold the ball at knee height and let it fall straight down.