Out of Bounds (OB)
Rules
Explained Simply
Areas outside the course boundary where play is not allowed, usually marked by white stakes or lines. If your ball goes OB, you take a penalty.
Example
“Your drive crosses the white stakes on the right side. You must play another ball from where you just hit, plus add a 1-stroke penalty (stroke and distance).”
Why it matters
OB is one of the costliest mistakes — it costs you distance AND a penalty stroke. Strategy: aim away from OB, even if it's a shorter shot.
Common beginner mistake
Not hitting a provisional ball when your shot might be OB. Walking all the way to find it OB means a long walk back to replay.
Related
beginner
Rules
Related
- Provisional BallA second ball hit from the same spot when you think your first ball might be lost or out of bounds. Saves time — you don't have to walk back if the original is indeed lost.
- Lost BallIf you cannot find your ball within 3 minutes of searching, it is officially lost. You must return to where you last played from and hit again with a 1-stroke penalty.