Lateral Hazard (Red Stakes)
Rules
Explained Simply
A type of penalty area marked with RED stakes or lines, usually running alongside a hole. Gives you extra drop options compared to a regular (yellow) penalty area.
Example
“Red-staked water runs along the right side. Ball goes in — you can drop within 2 club-lengths of where it crossed the hazard margin, no closer to the hole.”
Why it matters
Red stakes = more flexibility. You can also drop on the opposite side of the hazard at the same distance — a big advantage.
Common beginner mistake
Dropping too close to the hole. You must drop no closer than where the ball entered the hazard.
Related
casual
Rules
Related
- Penalty Area (Hazard)An area on the course (marked red or yellow stakes) where special penalty rules apply if your ball lands there — usually bodies of water but can include other areas.
- Water Hazard (Yellow Stakes)A penalty area marked with YELLOW stakes or lines — usually a pond or stream crossing the fairway. Fewer drop options than red stakes.
- 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.