Rule 16.3 Embedded Ball
The rainy season is upon us. During this time of the year, we are more likely to find our balls embedded while we are out playing on the course. There are a few important things to know and consider when relief is allowed for embedded balls and how we take relief in these situations.
16.3a When Relief is Allowed
The ball must be embedded in the general area, there is no relief under this rule if the ball is embedded anywhere except in the general area. Per definition, the general area is the area of the course that covers everything except for the other four defined areas: teeing area, penalty areas, bunkers, and putting green. A ball is only embedded when it is in its own pitch-mark made as a result of the player’s previous stroke and part of the ball is below the level of the ground.
A ball is not embedded when is it below the level of the ground as a result of anything other than the player’s previous stroke. This includes the ball being stepped on, the ball being driven into the ground without being airborne, or when the ball is dropped after taking relief under a Rule.
16.3b Relief for Embedded Ball
When a player’s ball is embedded in the general area, the player may take relief by dropping the original ball or another ball in a specific relief area.
Reference Point: The spot in the general area right behind where the ball is embedded.
Size of Relief Area Measured from Reference Point: One club-length, but with limits on being in the general area and not nearer the hole than the reference point.
