Rule 23. Loose Impediments
Definitions
All defined terms are in italics and are listed alphabetically in
the Definitions section — see pages 5-18.
23-1. Relief
Except when both the loose impediment and the ball lie in or
touch the same hazard, any loose impediment may be removed
without penalty.
If the ball lies anywhere other than on the putting green and the
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removal of a loose impediment by the player causes the ball to
move, Rule 18-2a applies.
On the putting green, if the ball or ball-marker is accidentally
moved in the process of removing a loose impediment, the ball or
ball-marker must be replaced. There is no penalty, provided
the movement of the ball or ball-marker is directly attributable
to the removal of the loose impediment. Otherwise, if the player
causes the ball to move, he incurs a penalty of one stroke under
Rule 18-2a.
When a ball is in motion, a loose impediment that might influence
the movement of the ball must not be removed.
Note: If the ball lies in a hazard, the player must not touch or
move any loose impediment lying in or touching the same hazard
— see Rule 13-4c.
Penalty for Breach of Rule :
Match play — Loss of hole; Stroke play — Two strokes.
(Searching for ball in hazard — see Rule 12-1.)
(Touching line of putt — see Rule 16-1a.)
